§ Mr. MACKARNESSasked the hon. Member for the Barnstaple Division, as representing the Charity Commissioners, whether the Charity Commissioners are 203W aware that in November last criminal proceedings were taken against certain parishioners of Eastbury, in Berkshire, by the tenant of the Manor Farm for alleged trespass on the land known as the Poors Furze, in that parish; whether the Commissioners recognise any right or title in the prosecution to interfere with the privileges in regard to the Poors Furze secured to the parishioners of Eastbury; and, if not, what steps they propose to take?
§ Mr. E. J. SOARESThe answer to the first paragraph of the question is in the affirmative; and to the second in the negative. It is now stated that no lease of the Poors Furze or the sporting rights over it has been granted by the lord and lady of the manor, the trustees of it. It is beyond the province of the Commissioners to take any steps as to the prosecution which has taken place. But they have now prepared a draft scheme for the future regulation of the charity.