§ Mr. Parkerasked the Minister of Agriculture whether in view of the large number of applicants for allotments in some areas on the waiting lists, he will seek powers to allot the gardens of empty houses?
§ Mr. T. WilliamsUrban allotment authorities already have power, subject to my right hon. Friend's consent, under the Cultivation of Lands Order, 1939, to enter on the gardens of unoccupied dwelling houses for the purpose of providing allotments. My right hon. Friend has recently suggested to these authorities that they should not hesitate to use these powers if sufficient suitable land cannot otherwise be obtained. I must, however, point out that the use of these powers might result in great hardship in some cases, either by obstructing the letting of the houses or, on the other hand, by reason of the persons who undertake the cultivation of the land, having to give it up if the houses should be let. The powers must, therefore, be exercised with discrimination.