HC Deb 05 June 1947 vol 438 c505
Major Mott-Radclyffe

I beg to move, in page 58, line 36, after "divisions," to insert: and for the hearing of any proposal referred to it in public or in private as the person by whom such reference is made shall require. We think it should be open to an appellant to say whether or not he wishes the proceedings to be taken in front of the land tribunal to be heard in public or private. I do not wish to delay the House by elaborating the argument, which is perfectly plain.

Colonel Clarke

I beg to second the Amendment.

Mr. T. Williams

There is no need for this Amendment, because that is exactly what happens at the moment. Of the last 26 appeals that have been heard, 17 have been heard in public with the consent of the applicant, and nine have been heard in private at the request of the applicant. Therefore, it is left for the applicant to define whether or not he would like the appeal to be made in public.

Major Mott-Radclyffe

In view of the Minister's assurance, I beg to ask leave to withdraw the Amendment.

Amendment, by leave, withdrawn.