HC Deb 24 October 1949 vol 468 c1000
64. Mr. David Renton

asked the Minister of Works whether he is aware that his Department last year informed the owner of certain requisitioned land at Hemingford Park, Huntingdonshire, that the Ministry would deliver up possession of that land on 23rd June, 1949, and that the land is urgently needed for agricultural purposes, but cannot be so used until it has been cleared of barbed wire, concrete foundations, etc.; and when it is intended to reinstate the property.

Mr. Key

I regret that I am unable to trace the undertaking referred to. Discussions are now taking place to determine precisely what areas require clearance for agricultural purposes, and the work will then be put in hand.

Mr. Renton

Is the Minister aware that this is valuable agricultural land which has lain derelict for a long time, and that the Government have had the whole of the last four months in which to clear it up; and will he say whether this sleeping sickness of delay is systematic of what we can expect nowadays?

Mr. Key

No, Sir. Discussions have been taking place with the people concerned as to the work we shall carry out, and when these discussions have been completed the work will be put in hand.