HC Deb 18 April 1946 vol 421 cc478-9W
Mr. Watkins

asked the Secretary of State for War what common lands are now requisitioned by his department in the counties of Brecon and Radnor.

Mr. Lawson:

So far as I have been able to find out in the time available, some 250 acres of common land are requisitioned by the War Department under Defence Regulation 51 in the County of Radnor and 165 acres in the County of Brecon.

Mr. D. J. Williams

asked the Secretary of State for War if he is aware that trenches dug on common land in South Wales for the purpose of Army exercises during the war are still unfilled; that they are an inconvenience to farmers and a danger to animals that graze on this land; and what steps he is taking to have these trenches filled.

Mr. Lawson:

Trenches dug during training are normally filled in before each particular exercise closes. In cases where trenches have been left unfilled, compensation may be claimed by landowners, or tenants, through district claims officers, to cover labour expenses incurred. It is not in such cases the policy of the War Department physically to reinstate land, except in exceptional circumstances, and then only when labour is available.