HL Deb 20 June 1961 vol 232 cc490-1

2.45 p.m.

LORD DERWENT

My Lords, I beg leave to ask the Question which stands in my name on the Order Paper.

[The Question was as follows:

To ask Her Majesty's Government if they will introduce immediate legislation to enable Government Departments, when compulsorily acquiring land, to suspend commoners' rights, instead of being compelled to extinguish such rights, as under the existing law.]

THE FIRST LORD OF THE ADMIRALTY (LORD CARRINGTON)

My Lords, the Government have in course of preparation legislation designed, among other things, to give effect to the recommendation of the Royal Commission on Common Land that, if Defence Departments and water undertakings acquire common land which they do not need permanently, they should, wherever possible, arrange to suspend any common rights but not to extinguish them. This legislation will be introduced as soon as Parliamentary time permits.

LORD DERWENT

My Lords, I thank my noble friend for his Answer, and I am glad to hear that something is likely to be done. But is he aware that these commoners' rights are being extinguished almost daily—for example, at Fyling-dales Moor at the present time? Would it not be possible to introduce a one-clause enabling Bill empowering a Government Department to suspend commoners' rights in suitable cases, and could not such legislation be put into force in a matter of weeks?

LORD CARRINGTON

My Lords, I have great sympathy with what my noble friend says about commoners' rights, but it is really a question of the Parliamentary timetable and Parliamentary time. All I can say is that as soon as possible this legislation will be introduced.

LORD SILKIN

My Lords, can the noble Earl give an assurance that, if it is introduced, it will be carried through during this Session of Parliament?

LORD CARRINGTON

My Lords, I was rather surprised to find myself answering this Question at all, and I think that what the noble Lord asks goes rather outside my province.