HC Deb 23 June 1980 vol 987 cc3-4W
Mr. Jessel

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment whether any further items have been accepted by the Government in satisfaction of estate duty or capital transfer tax.

Mr. Heseltine

Yes. Some 167 acres of scenic woodland flanking the famous Sissinghurst castle and gardens in Kent have been accepted in lieu of capital transfer tax. The woodland has been transferred to the National Trust, which also owns the castle and gardens.

The net cost was£27,600 and this was borne equally on the Vote of my Department and that of the Office of Arts and Libraries.