§ Mr. MACLEANasked the Prime Minister whether he is aware that the schemes of road-making which were inaugurated for the purpose of giving work to the unemployed are having the effect of increasing the value of the land contiguous to the new roads; and whether, as the expenditure on such roads has been and is being borne by local bodies and the National Exchequer, he intends introducing legislation to obtain for the public those increased values?
§ Colonel ASHLEYI have been asked to reply. Where any powers exist for the purchase of lands adjacent to the new roads, expert advice is taken as to whether such purchase would be financially advantageous. Where possible, I am also taking steps, in co-operation with the local authorities concerned, for the application of their town-planning powers to secure the line of new roads on the most advantageous and economical terms.