HC Deb 18 February 1958 vol 582 cc1035-6
58 and 59. Mrs. Butler

asked the Attorney-General (1) in what circumstances the agents to the Public Trustee were instructed to terminate the tenancy of Mrs. Lloyd, of 36, Parkhurst Road. Wood Green, on 6th October, 1958;

(2) what advice the Public Trustee obtained in valuing properties in his possession in Parkhurst Road, Wood Green, at £1,450.

The Attorney-General (Sir Reginald Manningham-Buller)

This information is not available. Not only do the statutory rules governing the Public Trustee's Office oblige him to observe strict secrecy about all trusts in course of administration by him, but he is not subject to the directions of any Minister in respect of them. His duty is to the beneficiaries of the trusts he administers, but any person aggrieved by an act, decision or omission of the Public Trustee may appeal to the High Court for relief.

Mrs. Butler

Is the Attorney-General aware that this lady has lived in the house for 16 years after suffering severely and losing her former home during the war-time bombing? Is he further aware that she has put this poor property into a very good state of repair, and that, however he is protected, is it not important that the Public Trustee should be setting a good example to bad landlords by negotiating with this tenant instead of turning her out into the street?

The Attorney-General

As I said the Public Trustee's duty is to the beneficiaries of the trusts he administers, and any person aggrieved by an act of his may appeal to the High Court for relief.