§ 19. Mr. Priorasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food how many disputes in cases of fowl pest compensation have been heard by administrative tribunals in 1961; and how much money was claimed and paid in compensation, respectively.
Mr. VaneFive such cases have been heard by arbitrators during 1961: the total of the valuations in dispute was £222,500. The arbitrators' awards have so far been made only in two of these cases.
§ Mr. PriorCan my hon. Friend say whether the tribunals were held in public? Is he aware of the great public concern that exists over the whole question of compensation for fowl pest? A great many people suspect that there are some rackets being run. Would it not be far better in the circumstances, from everyone's point of view, if these tribunals were held in public so that both the farmers and the public would know that everything was fair and above board?
Mr. VaneThere is, naturally, concern when large sums of money are being arbitrated. There is a great deal of misconception since this is agreeing the value of property—not diseased birds but sound property—which has been taken from individuals because it is supposed that they might be contacts of infectious disease. The arbitrations are all carried out in accordance with the Arbitration Act, 1950, and, as I told the hon. Gentleman the other day, I cannot see any reason why the procedure for the hearing of these cases should diverge from the accepted practice.
§ Mr. BullardIs not the trouble that large sums must be paid to people who keep birds in very large—almost excessively large—concentrations? When the Plant Committee reports, will my hon. Friend take cognisance of the fact that this keeping of birds in huge concentrations leads to trouble, not only with the disease but with payments as well?
Mr. VaneI will take cognisance of everything in the Plant Committee's report which, we hope, we will be receiving shortly.