§ 35. Mr. David HeathTo ask the hon. Member for Middlesbrough, representing the Church Commissioners, what the Commissioners' policy is in respect of agricultural rents on church-owned land. [144814]
§ Mr. Stuart BellAs a charity, the Commissioners are required to seek the best returns on their assets for the benefit of the Church of England clergy, serving and retired. They also seek to act as responsible landlords. In the case of agricultural tenants, the Commissioners fully recognise the crisis in farming and where there is hardship will consider how best to help. This is done on a case by case basis and tenants are free to discuss their difficulties with agents or staff.