CHAPTER II 



THE STATE AND OCCUPYING OWNERSHIP 



The problem is obviously a complex one. 

 The general cry is "security of tenure." 

 Under the present system this appears impos- 

 sible to obtain satisfactorily. The suggestion 

 is made that the tenant should have a minimum 

 notice of two years, but it is argued that this 

 would only prolong his anxiety for two years 

 instead of one. The present law in regard to 

 compensation to an outgoing tenant is in- 

 efficient. A bad farmer, on leaving a holding, 

 often receives more than would seem justified, 

 while a good farmer is inadequately compen- 

 sated for good husbandry. No amendment 

 yet suggested has been found workable. The 

 " Evesham Custom " has been urged whereby 

 the outgoing tenant settles the question of 

 valuations with the incoming tenant, whom 

 he finds himself; here, again, it is only local 



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