HC Deb 15 December 1982 vol 34 cc138-9W
Mr. Morgan

asked the Secretary of State for Wales whether he will take steps to ensure that interest at the official rate applicable at the material time will henceforth be paid on all sums of money agreed, or adjudicated, to be due in respect of land compulsorily purchased in Wales, with effect from the date of such agreement or adjudication.

Mr. Michael Roberts

Interest is paid from the time of entry to the land until compensation is paid as laid down by statute. There is no provision for compensation to be paid from the time of agreement or award.

Mr. Morgan

asked the Secretary of State for Wales whether he will take steps to expedite the payment to owners of land in Wales compulsorily purchased of all amounts agreed or adjudicated to be due to them.

Mr. Michael Roberts

Final payment to a landowner or tenant can be made only when compensation terms have been agreed and the legal transfer of the land completed. When that is done payment is made as quickly as possible.

When entry to the land by the Secretary of State is taken before completion the vendor is entitled, on request, to an advance payment of 90 per cent. of the agreed or estimated compensation. Vendors are advised of this facility when notice treat is served. An advance payment may, at the Secretary of State's discretion, be made before entry to alleviate hardship.

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