§ Mr. WIGNALLasked the Minister of Agriculture if he is aware that the tenants occupying cottages on the Crown lands at Park End, Forest of Dean, Gloucestershire, had their rents increased in February last, and have received notices of a further increase in April next; and, taking into consideration the fall in wages and the continued high cost of living, will he make inquiries into the cause of this further increase of rent, and, if possible, prevent it coming into operation?
§ Sir R. SANDERS:Certain cottage rents were increased in February, 1923, in accordance with the provisions of the Rent Restrictions Act, because of the high cost of repairs and an increase in rates, and others are to be increased in April next. No further increase is proposed, however, in respect of the first-mentioned class. I may add that the increases are comparatively small and not up to the full statutory limit of 40 per cent.