HC Deb 24 April 1934 vol 288 cc1551-2
62. Mr. PIKE

asked the Minister of Health whether, in view of the fact that large areas throughout the country are now being condemned under slum-clearance orders, he will issue instructions that no such areas or properties existing thereon shall be subject to any increase in the amounts payable for rates as the result of reassessment through quinquennial revaluation; and whether he will arrange that repayment can be made to all persons, occupiers, or owners of condemned property who have been adversely affected by reassessment during the present financial year?

The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the MINISTRY of HEALTH (Mr. Shakespeare)

My right hon. Friend is not empowered to issue such instructions or make such arrangements as my hon. Friend suggests. Questions of assessment and liability for payment of rates are for the determination of the local authorities subject to the right of any person aggrieved to appeal to the courts.

Mr. PIKE

In view of the unsatisfactory nature of the reply, I beg to give notice that I will raise the matter on the Adjournment.

63. Sir P. HARRIS

asked the Minister of Health how many persons in England and Wales displaced by slum-clearance schemes during the last 12 months have been re-housed?

Mr. SHAKESPEARE

The re-housing accommodation provided during the year ended 31st March, 1934, to replace houses demolished under the Housing Act, 1930, or to abate overcrowding in improvement areas, was sufficient for the accommodation of 42,888 persons.

Sir P. HARRIS

How many of these were additional houses?

Mr. SHAKESPEARE

I must ask for notice of that question.

65. Mr. CHORLTON

asked the Minister of Health if he has considered the letter sent from the secretary of the Collyhurst Shopkeepers Defence League with reference to the slum-clearance proposal in that district; and what he proposes to do in the matter?

Mr. SHAKESPEARE

Yes, Sir. As my hon. Friend was informed on the 12th instant, the public local inquiry necessary before the order of the local authority can be confirmed is to be held on 30th May next, which all interested parties may attend. The objections to the order will be considered by my right hon. Friend on receipt of his inspector's report.