HC Deb 14 February 1957 vol 564 cc1438-9
52. Mr. Gower

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what steps he takes to be formally represented at statutory tribunals considering cases involving the taking of agricultural land in Wales for non-agricultural uses; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Amory

It is not the practice of my Department either in Wales or in England to be represented at public inquiries held under the planning or compulsory purchase procedures on the instructions of another Minister.

Mr. Gower

Can my right hon. Friend say, then, how he indicates the attitude of the Ministry of Agriculture in cases of this kind? Also, how does he indicate the attitude of the Ministry in cases like the projected taking of land at Treweryn in North Wales for the purposes of a reservoir for Liverpool?

Mr. Amory

The practice is that my Department gives advice to other Ministries when that advice is requested by other Ministries.

Mr. Langford-Holt

Would not my right hon. Friend agree that the matter is becoming of increasing importance in both Wales and England? Is not the time fast approaching when his attitude and his decision should be paramount in these matters?

Mr. Amory

I think the Government will be reviewing these questions in the light of the recommendations of the Franks Committee.