HL Deb 07 July 1948 vol 157 cc437-8

2.35 p.m.

VISCOUNT BRIDGEMAN

My Lords, I beg to ask the question standing in my name on the Order Paper.

[The question was as follows:

To ask His Majesty's Government, how many applications have been received from Territorial and Auxiliary Forces Associations for compulsory purchase of buildings or land since War Office authority for this was given on April 21 last, and in how many cases this authority has been granted.]

THE MINISTER OF CIVIL AVIATION (LORD PAKENHAM)

My Lords, six applications have been received, all of which are under consideration.

VISCOUNT BRIDGEMAN

I thank the noble Lord for his reply, and would ask whether he does not think that the authority now granted to purchase will have a good effect on the system of negotiations conducted by Territorial Associations in the acquisition of their premises.

LORD PAKENHAM

I should hope that the noble Lord is correct. As he knows, the War Office used their powers of compulsory acquisition under the Defence Acts of 1842 to 1935.

VISCOUNT BRIDGEMAN

Arising further from the noble Lord's reply, will he consult his colleagues with a view to ensuring the minimum possible delay in dealing with applications now under consideration?

LORD PAKENHAM

I will certainly consult my colleagues in. the sense indicated. The applications in question were received between June 1 and June 18.