§ Mr. MILLSasked the Minister of Agriculture whether he is aware of the dissatisfaction existing as regards present legislation affecting the allotment movement; whether, in particular, there is serious delay on the part of numbers of local authorities in providing land, both for small-holdings and allotments; and whether he will consider the introduction of legislation making it compulsory upon authorities to provide small holdings and allotments within a stated period where land is available?
§ Sir R. SANDERSThe Ministry is of opinion that existing legislation is ample for the provision of small-holdings and allotments, and that the local authorities concerned are providing land with as little delay as possible. It must be remembered, however, that the local authorities are unable to provide allotments unless there is a reasonable probability of the rents which the applicants are prepared to pay being sufficient to recoup all expenses incurred by the local authority in regard to purchase money, rent, fencing, etc. In these circumstances, the Ministry is not prepared to adopt the suggestion made by the hon. Member.