Small Landholdings and Society: The Legacy of Small Landholder Legislation in the South-west of Scotland, 1911–Present Day

Abstract

The chapter analyses the legal history of agricultural legislation in Wales with particular emphasis on the calls for a separate Land Court for Wales, both prior to and in the years immediately following the Welsh Land Commission (1893-1896). Notwithstanding the Commission's recommendations for the establishment of a Land Court, such a court was never established in Wales. By reference to relevant Hansard debates, the attitude of certain MP's is discussed (notably Tom Ellis and Brynmor Jones) demonstrating a Welsh identity in agricultural matters, both pre and post the years immediately following the Commission's Report. Specific historical agricultural legislation is considered together with a brief overview of contemporary agricultural legislation following the devolution settlement in Wales in respect of agriculture. The history of specific topics such as tenant right, fair rent, succession and arbitration is discussed.