HC Deb 03 February 1955 vol 536 cc1263-4
37. Mr. K. Robinson

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he is now in a position to make a statement about the future of the National Land Fund.

Mr. H. Brooke

I have nothing to add to the answers which I gave to the hon. Member on 21st October last.

Mr. Robinson

Will the hon. Gentleman convey to the Chancellor that he would give the maximum satisfaction to the largest number of people outside the Treasury if he were to embark on a much increased expenditure from this Fund upon the admirable objects for which it was set up?

Mr. Brooke

I am sure that my right hon. Friend will note what the hon. Member has said and take that into consideration, along with everything else.

Mr. Vane

May I ask my hon. Friend to see whether some part of this Fund can be used to compensate local authorities for the praiseworthy work which they are doing in trying to use the more expensive sites for housing and not always wanting to take the best agricultural land, which is generally the cheapest? Surely that is within the general object of the Fund?

Mr. Brooke

On the spur of the moment, I should say that my hon. Friend's suggestion would require legislation.