The National Trust
Sir: I was distressed to read the criticism of the National Trust, " Incompetence and Incivility" from a contributor to The Spectator (April 21) and, of course, I do not know anything of strictures made since they concern the Wessex Region.
I am the Editor of the Cornish Times and I think the National Trust here provide an irreplacable infrastructure. That is to say the displaced County families would never be able to provide the same facilities to the public — concerts, splendidly kept up gardens; beautifully appointed interiors. And I write as a displaced County person —my home, Earringdon near Exeter, is now an Home Office school.
Great landowners always come in for envy and criticism. I am afraid I sometimes state in the Cornish Times that the National Trust is " too realistic about rents" (they pretty well savage tenants after taking over from private landlords). The National Trust here is again in trouble because of a holier than thou attitude to their planning proposals in regard to commercial exploitation of their estates vis-alvis District Authorities.
But that is understandable — they want to get through what they are after and use The Name — same as any one of us would.
The National Trust is managed by people who are used both to handling money and employees and if anyone knows a better way of looking to all those millions of pounds in land and buildings, let it be stated.
Let it be stated?
It soon will, for the Civil Servants have in mind 'taking it over', in the ' national. interest ' of course, Just as they have The Forestry Commission in mind for takeover.
To conclude: my public in Cornwall appreciate the National Trust — we think they assist our (Development District) economy and most all people in Cornwall are working people given the work.
Eric Putnam Editor, Cornish Times, Great Place, Liskeard
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