§ 5. Mr. James Johnsonasked the Minister of Land and Natural Resources what correspondence he has received 1007 from the Ramblers Association, Yorkshire, East Riding Area, about the ploughing up of Millington Pastures, common land near Pocklington, and the protest ramble of this organisation in November, 1965; and what action he has taken.
§ The Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Land and Natural Resources (Mr. Arthur Skeffington)The Department has not been approached. Two years the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food in the previous administration, who was then responsible for commons, declined a request from the local Ramblers Association to intervene because, as my hon. Friend will realise, the Minister has no power to settle disputes. However, if the status of the land is in question, those interested should apply—in due course—for the land to be registered under the Commons Registration Act, 1965.
§ Mr. JohnsonThat appears to be a helpful Answer. Can the hon. Gentleman tell me what person or persons can take action in this matter?
§ Mr. SkeffingtonAny person can apply to the local registration authorities for the status of the common to be determined. Such a person does not have to have a legal interest in the land.