HC Deb 23 May 1957 vol 570 cc1376-7
22. Mr. F. M. Bennett

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when the tenant of the Forestry Commission lodge at Aberangell can expect that his cottage will be repainted and redecorated.

The Joint Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (Mr. J. B. Godber)

The Forestry Commission has informed my right hon. Friend that it will paint the outside of the cottage this year. The tenant is responsible for internal decoration.

Mr. Bennett

Is my hon. Friend aware that this cottage has been allegedly down for painting for several years? Is he further aware that when the Forestry Commission leases a property, it insists on a five-year painting clause? In these circumstances, how has this cottage gone unpainted for over twenty years?

Mr. Godber

My hon. Friend is not quite correct in his facts. The cottage was painted in 1943, 1949 and 1951. I am, nevertheless, grateful to my hon. Friend for bringing the point to my attention.

Mr. Bennett

As I live there, I know perfectly well when the cottage was last painted.