HC Deb 06 July 1917 vol 95 cc1475-6
11. Colonel Lord HENRY CAVENDISH-BENTINCK

asked the First Commis- sioner of Works the estimated expenditure involved in the reconstruction of the area in Silvertown destroyed by the recent explosion?

The FIRST COMMISSIONER of WORKS (Sir Alfred Mond)

One hundred and thirty thousand pounds.

Lord H. CAVENDISH-BENTINCK

Can the right hon. Gentleman say whether the expenditure of this very large sum of money is justified when it perpetuates conditions so gravely prejudicial to the public health?

Sir A. MOND

The expenditure of this money was necessary for the rehousing of a population that had no other place to go to at the time. Undoubtedly it would be very much more agreeable to me to reconstruct and rebuild in a very much better way a garden city somewhere else, but that is impossible during the War.

Lord H. CAVENDISH-BENTINCK

But does not the right hon. Gentleman consider that the expenditure of this money in such a way is to perpetuate the evil?

Mr. SPEAKER

The Noble Lord must ask his question, but not use h as a means of making statements.

Lord H. CAVENDISH-BENTINCK

I beg to give notice that I will draw attention to this matter on the Adjournment.

Mr. STEWART

What would be the position of the local authorities if the houses are not fit for human habitation?

Mr. SPEAKER

That does not arise out of the question.

Mr. BILLING

Can the right hon. Gentleman give the House the names of the owners of the factory property and private property involved?

Mr. SPEAKER

That does not arise out of this question. The hon. Member must give notice?