asked the Secretary of State for the Environment whether he will exempt from the provisions of the Community Land Bill all land held by trustees on behalf of religious bodies at the date of the introduction of the Bill.

As my right hon. Friend the Prime Minister and I recently told a deputation from the Churches, the Government are considering to what extent, within the principles of the land scheme, some of the difficulties seen by them can be overcome. I would not at this stage like to anticipate what provisions will be appropriate.