HC Deb 23 April 1913 vol 52 cc337-8
30. Mr. ROYDS

asked the figures showing the increase in Great Britain in the year 1911–12 in the number of cottages and small houses under £20 annual value and of houses over £20 annual value, respectively, as compared with the previous year?

Mr. LLOYD GEORGE

The increase in the year 1911–12 over the numbers of the preceding year was 80,165 in the case of cottages and small houses of under £20 annual value, and 12,370 in the case of private houses of £20 annual value or upwards.

Mr. ROYDS

Is not the right hon. Gentleman aware that notwithstanding the abnormal decrease in building in 1910–11 after the passing of the People's Budget yet the figures he has just quoted show a serious decrease as compared with the average of previous years preceding the Budget?

Mr. LLOYD GEORGE

I do not remember the figures at the present, moment, but I think that the hon. Gentleman is inaccurate.

Mr. ROYDS

Does the hon. Gentleman think that there is any prospect of the serious deficiency being removed so long as the People's Budget remains on the Statute Book?

Mr. SPEAKER

That is a controversial statement made with the view of expressing an opinion.