§ Mr. F. ROBERTSasked the Minister of Agriculture what steps, if any, have been taken by his Department in reference to large increases of rents of allotments at Springfield, South Wigston, Leicestershire; and whether land has been provided by the council to meet the demand for allotments?
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§ Major BARNSTONI have been asked to reply. I understand that at a meeting of the Wigston Allotment Committee, held on 10th February, one of the Ministry's Commissioners was informed of the proposed increase in rents, and undertook to see the owner's agent with a view to obtaining a reduction of the proposed rents. It appears, however, that before these steps had time to be effective, the members of the Springfield Allotment Society resolved to accept the owner's terms. Further efforts were made by the Commissioner, but the owner declined to reduce the rent. In regard to the provision of additional land for allotments, I am informed that the council has decided to make a compulsory hiring order in respect of a field of about eight acres in Oadby Road, Wigston Magna.