§ 37. Mr. Keelingasked the Attorney-General whether he will now make a statement about the allegation that the National Trust committed a breach of trust at Crowlink Farm, near the Seven Sisters, Sussex.
§ The Attorney-GeneralThe investigations into this matter have now been completed and after considering the information in my possession, I have come to the conclusion that no action on my part is called for.
§ Mr. KeelingMay I ask, in view of the Debate on the Supplementary Estimates the other day, if the right hon. and learned Gentleman would confirm that, even though it might be his duty to take action if the National Trust did commit a breach of trust, the Government do not control the National Trust?
§ The Attorney-GeneralYes, I agree; that is the position.
§ Mr. MarloweAlthough that may be a strictly legal interpretation of the position, is it not a fact that it was a condition of the gift of this land that it should be left open to the public but that it is now enclosed; and does not the right hon. and learned Gentleman think that the intention of the donor should be carried out for the benefit of the public?
§ The Attorney-GeneralThe information which I have shows that there is really no substantial interference with the rights of access by the public. Fences have been put up in the course of good husbandry, as appears to be necessary for the purposes of agriculture on the Downs, but there are gates, and members of the public are free to go through.
§ Mr. C. S. TaylorMay I give notice that, as this question affects my constituency, in view of the unsatisfactory nature of the reply, I shall raise it on the Adjournment?