§ Mr. KEIR HARDIEasked the Prime Minister whether he is aware that there is a scarcity of suitable houses for working people in nearly every industrial district in South Wales, and that, as a result, there is much overcrowding, leading to a high mortality rate from consumption and other preventable diseases, and that rents are high; and whether he will consider the advisability of recommending the appointment of a small commission to collect evidence and report on the extent of the evil, and make recommendations on the best and speediest method for overcoming it?
§ The PRESIDENT of the LOCAL GOVERNMENT BOARD (Mr. Burns)The Prime Minister has asked me to reply to this question. I am aware that there is a scarcity of suitable houses for working people in many industrial districts in South Wales, and of the results of such scarcity. Something, however, is being done to remove the scarcity of dwellings. Since 1st January, 1910, I have sanctioned loans amounting to £67,540 for the provision by local authorities of houses for the working classes in South Wales and Monmouthshire. Six other proposals for the erection of such houses are before me, and in an advanced stage. My hon. Friend may rest assured that this matter is receiving my serious attention, and, as regards those districts in which nothing adequate has been done, in the past, I am awaiting the reports of the medical officers of health for the past year before deciding what further action should be taken. I scarcely think that the appointment of the suggested Commission would be likely to advance matters, and, for the present at any rate, I prefer to rely on the provisions of the Housing, Town Planning, etc., Act, 1909.
§ Mr. CHARLES BATHURSTDoes the right hon. Gentleman realise the gravity of the position in the town of Llanelly where large works are springing up every year, and where there is no increase in housing?
§ Mr. BURNSYes, and I think, if the local authorities availed themselves of the powers they already have, and if neighbouring landlords would assist in the process, much of the evil would be remedied.
§ Mr. C. BATHURSTIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that the only large landlord in that district is a Radical?
§ Mr. WEDGWOODMay I ask whether the right hon. Gentleman does not think that the halfpenny tax on undeveloped land, if it were increased a bit further, would tend to the erection of houses?