HC Deb 21 October 1954 vol 531 cc1362-3
17. Mr. K. Robinson

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will make a statement on the future of the National Land Fund.

The Financial Secretary to the Treasury (Mr. Henry Brooke)

No, Sir; not at present.

Mr. Robinson

Before adopting the suggestion made by the Public Accounts Committee, that this Fund should be handed back to the Exchequer, will the hon. Gentleman bear in mind that there are many purposes, such as the preservation of historic houses and national parks, for which the Fund could be used and which are wholly in conformity with the ideas of the House at the time that the Fund was set up?

Mr. Brooke

My right hon. Friend has read the comments of the Public Accounts Committee, and he will take all matters into consideration before reaching a decision.

Lieut.-Colonel Bromley-Davenport

Is my hon. Friend aware how delighted we are at the excellent and intelligent manner in which he has answered his first Question? Is he further aware that if he goes on in this excellent manner, we shall not only look forward to his early promotion but we on these benches will do all we can to further it?