asked the Minister for Lands the total acreage of land purchased by non-nationals since 1st January, 1965, to the latest date for which figures are available.

In the almost seven years from the passing of the Land Act. 1965, to 31st December, 1971, and excluding mortgage interests, areas under five acres, and transfers from one non-citizen to another, consents under section 45 of the Act have been given by the Land Commission in 532 cases, involving an area of 26,276 acres.

Could the Minister indicate if there has been a decline in the annual rate of consents given over the period or if they have been increasing over the period?

That is a separate question.

The approximate figures were 3,800 in the first year, 5,100 the second, 4,400 the third, 4,700 the fourth, 2,500 the fifth, 3,000 the sixth and 2,700 the seventh.

Thank you.

Would the Minister not consider that it would be a good idea for the Land Commission to acquire this land which has been sold to non-nationals and have it divided among nationals?

That is a separate question. The question relates to the purchase of land by non-nationals.

That is exactly what I said. Would the Minister not consider that the Land Commission should acquire this land and divide it among the people?

No.

What did the Minister say?

I said no, I would not so consider.