HC Deb 29 July 1952 vol 504 cc1239-40
7. Mr. Foot

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that the title to the land on Plymouth Hoe which his Department holds on behalf of the Commissioners of Crown Lands has often been disputed by authorities in Plymouth; and why he refused to initiate negotiations with the Commissioners of Crown Lands with a view to restoring this property to its proper owners.

Mr. Head

No, Sir, I know of no grounds for disputed ownership in this case.

Mr. Foot

This case is rather like the book case. Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that Plymouth Hoe was taken from the people of Plymouth by a Stuart King; that the people of Plymouth have never received one brass farthing for it; and that the War Office, therefore, is in the position of a receiver of stolen goods? What does the right hon. Gentleman propose to do about it?

Mr. Head

I am aware that, so far as the War Office is concerned, we propose to face the future.

Mr. Foot

Does the right hon. Gentleman mean to say he is not going to make any inquiry about this matter at all? It does give rise to frequent difficulties, for whenever it is proposed that some change be made on the Hoe the people of Plymouth have got to argue with a Department that has got no right to be there at all.

Mr. Head

If the hon. Gentleman will bring to my attention any matter which is disputed regarding the ownership of this land I shall be only too glad to look into it.