HC Deb 02 November 1948 vol 457 c652
7. Mr. McKie

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether it is customary in cases where land is in use for Service purposes, and which is now being made available for agricultural purposes, that equal treatment should be given to all dispossessed occupiers concerned.

Mr. Woodburn

Except where there are Service requirements restricting the agricultural use to which the land may be put, it is customary, other things being equal, for all dispossessed occupiers to be treated on the same basis when surplus land is being let.

Mr. McKie

Is the Minister aware that there are cases where dispossessed occupiers, in all the conditions which he has envisaged, have not been given an opportunity? Will the right hon. Gentleman institute a review of the whole state of affairs in order that the full facts may be available?

Mr. Woodburn

The answer is that I am not aware of those cases. If the hon. Member is aware of them, perhaps the best thing he could do would be to bring them to our notice.

Major Lloyd

Will the Minister promise that if they are brought to his notice, the principle which he has just enunciated of equity and social justice will be carried out? Otherwise, what is the use of bringing the cases to his notice?