HC Deb 20 January 1942 vol 377 cc210-1W
Mr. Douglas

asked the Minister of Agriculture the names of any commons in respect of which application was made to his Department during 1941, or was outstanding on 31st December, 1940, under Section 194 of the Law of Property Act, 1925, to make an enclosure, specifying in each case whether a public inquiry has been held, the area of land sought to be enclosed, the purpose for which it was proposed to enclose the land, the area, if any, thrown into the common in lieu of the land enclosed, the result of the application, and the reason, in any case where consent has been given without an area being thrown into the common at least equal to the land enclosed, for not requiring that course to be followed?

Mr. Hudson

The only application to my Department during 1941 under Section 194 of the Law of Property Act, 1925, was in respect of part of the common known as Abingdon Lane Down, East Ilsley, Berks. The area affected is approximately 1½ acres. The purpose of the enclosure is to provide access to water for cattle grazing on the adjoining downland where, in view of the ground level, there is difficulty in providing a supply. The matter is under consideration. No application was outstanding on 31st December, 1940.

Mr. Douglas

asked the Minister of Agriculture whether he will give, by counties, a list showing the acreage of common lands and manorial wastes in rural parishes outside the Metropolitan area over which the owner of the soil of the common or waste has by deed given the public rights of air and exercise since the passing of the Law of Property Act, 1925, distinguishing between the acreage dealt with before 1941 and during that year; and a list of those counties in which no action has been taken?

Mr. Hudson

No Deed of Declaration was deposited during the year 1941, so that the answer given to the hon. Member on 21st January, 1941, is still applicable.