HC Deb 05 February 1918 vol 101 cc2145-6W
Major NEWMAN

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether, in conjunction with the representatives of our Oversea Dominions, a practical scheme is being devised for the settlement in Over-sea Dominions of soldiers and sailors of the Imperial Forces who may desire to do so on the termination of the War?

Mr. HEWINS

I would refer the hon. and gallant Member to the Report of the Empire Settlement Committee, of which Lord Tennyson was Chairman, which has been published as Cd. 8672.

Major NEWMAN

asked the President of the Board of Agriculture whether an estate has been acquired in the neighbourhood of Hull at a cost of £334,000 with the object of providing a number of small farms for discharged soldiers and sailors; and, if so, what progress has been made with the scheme?

Mr. PROTHERO

An estate of 2,363 acres at Patrington, near Hull, has been acquired on a lease of ninety-nine years, at a yearly rental of £3,277. The approximate amount expended up to 31st January, 1918, on equipment, adaptation, erection of cottages, and the provision of the necessary working capital, is £49,250. The estate is at present being farmed as a whole; twenty-three pairs of cottages are in course of erection, and fifteen other pairs have been completed, and it is anticipated that about sixty ex-Service men with their families will eventually be placed on the property. The receipts since the Board obtained vacant possession on 6th April last amount to about £5,500.

Major NEWMAN

asked the Minister of Reconstruction whether, apart from the appointing of a Committee, anything practical has yet been accomplished with a view to settle on the land as owners or holders sailors or soldiers who may desire to take up an agricultural life on the termination of the War?

Mr. PROTHERO

Under the Small Holdings (Colonies) Act, 1916, three estates, with an aggregate acreage of 4,513 acres, have been acquired, and the purchase of a fourth of 1,345 acres is being arranged for the settlement of sailors and soldiers discharged from the Army. Full particulars of the progress made with regard to these colony schemes is contained in a Report of the proceedings under the principal Act which will be presented. to Parliament at an early date. In addition, 300 acres have been given for the purpose by a private donor.