HC Deb 12 January 1976 vol 903 cc45-6W
Mr. Biffen

asked the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster what are the sources of advice he seeks concerning the implementation of the agricultural landlord policies of the Duchy of Lancaster; and if he will list the tenant farmers included amongst his advisers.

Mr. Lever

I receive advice from members of the Duchy Council and the professional staff. The Duchy maintains a close relationship with tenant farmers, but none is asked to give formal advice.

Mr. Biffen

asked the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster what has been the average increase in rents secured from agricultural tenancies of the Duchy of Lancaster where revised terms have been arranged in the past 18 months.

Mr. Lever

A general review of agricultural rents was carried out in 1974–75. New rents were negotiated, and will result, in a full year, in a gross increase of approximately 82 per cent. over rents which had, in the main, been encharged since 1966–67.

Mr. Biffen

asked the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster how many notices to quit have been served by the Duchy of Lancaster over the past 18 months as a prelude to securing increased rents from agricultural tenants.

Mr. Lever

None.