asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food how many representations he has had regarding his decision to sell Ministry-owned land at Laxton, Nottinghamshire.

Seventy-nine, as at 16 January.

Does the Minister agree that the unique value of Laxton is not contained in the acreage that might be flogged off for profit but in the methods that have been employed there? Does he agree that they are unique and should be preserved?

Certainly. Let me make clear that the Government have no intention of affecting the historical system of land tenure at Laxton in any way. I have given assurances to that effect Any buyer will be required to give assurances to the Government in the same vein.