§ Dr. J. WILLIAMSasked the Minister of Agriculture when it is the intention of the Government to remove the restrictions on civilians with regard to small holdings; and whether he will consider the advisability of doing so in those counties where the requirements of the ex-service men have been satisfied?
§ Major BARNSTONI have been asked to reply. The present position is that a county council or council of a county borough cannot provide and let a small holding to any person who is not an ex-service man except with the Ministry's consent. This is to ensure that a preference in the provision of small holdings3160W is given to ex-service applicants, but in cases where there is no suitable ex-service applicant prepared to take a holding which is vacant, the Ministry consents to it being let to a civilian. My right hon. Friend is prepared to consider any definite scheme for the provision of small holdings for civilians which may be submitted by any county council which has satisfied the requirements of the ex-service applicants provided that it does not impose any further charge on the Exchequer.