HC Deb 28 June 1965 vol 715 cc4-5
6. Mr. Boyd-Carpenter

asked the Minister of Land and Natural Resources when he proposes to introduce legislation to set up a Land Commission.

13. Sir B. Janner

asked the Minister of Land and Natural Resources when legislation setting up a Land Commission will be introduced.

Mr. Willey

The hon. Members must be patient a little longer.

Mr. Boyd-Carpenter

While seeking to exercise that admirable quality, may I ask the right hon. Gentleman whether he is aware that very precise proposals on this matter were advocated by himself and his right hon. Friends at the General Election nine months ago, and that great uncertainty and confusion are being caused by the fact that these proposals have not been followed either by legislation or even so far by the promised White Paper? If a Bill is not coming forward this Session, would it not be in the interests of all concerned to say so?

Mr. Willey

As to the first part of that supplementary question, yes, I am so aware. As to the second part, the right hon. Gentleman will appreciate that this is a question of Parliamentary time, and if he will give me assistance through the usual channels I shall be much obliged.

Mr. Boyd-Carpenter

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that it is a little difficult to give even as agreeable a Minister as himself such assistance until one knows what he has in mind? Is he further aware that the fact that the various leaks from his Department completely contradict the specific election pledges made last October only adds to the confusion, with its very serious effect on the bringing forward of land for development, which the right hon. Gentleman is responsible for creating?

Mr. Willey

I have in mind legislation to implement the election manifesto. I need Parliamentary time to implement that and, as I say, I shall be obliged to the right hon. Gentleman if he can help me in that regard.