§ Mr. Barry FieldTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment if he has any proposals for amending legislation on agricultural tenancies.
§ Mr. WaldegraveOur proposals on agricultural tenancies are contained in the Housing Bill which received its First Reading on 19 November. The Bill provides that future tenancies granted to agricultural workers would generally be assured agricultural occupancies on terms similar to other new-style assured tenancies, and with similar statutory protection. The grounds for possession from an assured agricultural occupant would be broadly the same as those for an assured tenant. In addition, where a farmer wished to regain possession of his property from an assured agricultural occupant to house an incoming worker, the services of the Agricultural Dwelling House Advisory Committee could be used. Existing tenants whose tenancies are governed by the Rent (Agriculture) Act 1976 will continue to enjoy the protection of that Act.