§ 40. Mr. WINGasked the Secretary to the Local Government Board if he has received from the guardians of the parish of Newcastle-upon-Tyne and other similar bodies a resolution stating that, as the deterioration in the numbers or quality of our man power is largely attributable to the unhealthy housing of our working classes, thus tending to pauperism and immorality, they call upon the Government to take immediate steps to formulate a national and compulsory scheme for the erection of suitable and healthy 1786 dwellings in the great industrial centres of this country; and, if so, what steps are proposed to carry out this policy?
§ The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the LOCAL GOVERNMENT BOARD (Mr. Hayes Fisher)I have received from several boards of guardians resolutions to the effect mentioned. At the present time I can only state that the general question of the housing of the working classes after the War is engaging the careful attention of the Local Government Board.
§ Mr. WINGHas not an impression been produced by the Local Government Board that they had a Committee sitting with this, special object in view, and if that is so are the Committee likely to report soon?
§ Mr. FISHERThere is a Committee sitting, of which I am chairman, and they are about to issue, or will shortly issue, some elaborate questions to local authorities.
§ Mr. FIELDMay I ask what the hon. Gentleman means when he says the Local Government Board are giving careful consideration to the matter? The housing question is of the greatest importance all over the three kingdoms. What is going to be done?
§ Mr. FISHERVery obviously it is a large question, and it must await the consideration of the Cabinet when the requisite information has been tabulated for its consideration.