HC Deb 31 January 1972 vol 830 cc28-9
36. Mr. Arthur Davidson

asked the Attorney-General if he will introduce legislation to abolish ground rents.

The Attorney-General

This subject is under consideration by the Law Commission, and any decision as to legislation must await its report.

Mr. Davidson

I am grateful for that reply. Does not the right hon. and learned Gentleman agree that the system which is prevalent in Lancashire whereby one person is obliged to collect ground rents from his neighbours without any reward is grossly unfair? In view of the Law Commission's criticisms of it, can the right hon. and learned Gentleman say when he expects legislation to deal with it to come before the House?

The Attorney-General

This is a controversial and complex matter. The Law Commission's working papers made provisional conclusions. The final report is now being prepared and is expected in 1972.