Section 14: Lessee to watch over property

14. Lessee to watch over property (1) The lessee of Pas Géométriques shall watch over the property leased to him and prevent the cutting or removal of any trees growing on it which is— (a) not authorised by his lease, or by the Minister; or (b) in breach of any condition subject to which the right of cutting trees may have been granted in the lease. (2) (a) Where any trees growing on the Pas Géométriques are cut or removed without any lawful authority, or in breach of any condition of the lease, the Minister, on proof of the fact and without having to prove that the cutting or removal of the trees took place with the knowledge or sanction of the lessee, shall, subject to paragraph (b), be entitled to obtain judgment condemning the lessee to pay the value of the trees cut, or cancelling the lease with damages. (b) It shall be a defence for the lessee to prove that the trees were cut or stolen without any neglect on his part or in spite of proper supervision by him. (c) In the case referred to in paragraph (b), the lessee shall inform the Minister within a period of 7 days of the destruction or theft of the trees. 15. —