§ 3. Mr. Hayasked the Attorney-General whether he will introduce legislation to prevent the acquisition by prescription of rights of way and other easements over vacant war-damaged sites, which cannot yet be redeveloped, in favour of buildings which adjoin them.
§ The Solicitor-General (Sir Reginald Manningham-Buller)I do not think that legislation is required for this purpose. As my hon. Friend knows, the acquisition of a right of way can easily be prevented under the law as it stands by obstructing passage over the land or by putting up a notice and I am not aware that there is any serious risk of other easements being acquired over vacant war-damaged sites.
§ Mr. HayMy hon. and learned Friend will recollect that it is quite easy to acquire the right, particularly to light, if 2 the prescribed period under the Act continues uninterrupted, but if there is any lengthy delay in redeveloping war-damaged sites, is there not a serious risk that such right to light, and indeed other rights, may duly be acquired?
§ The Solicitor-GeneralWe have considered this matter very carefully and we do not consider that there is any serious risk.