§ 43. Mr. HIGHAMasked the President of the Local Government Board whether he is in a position to state what is the policy of the Government with respect to improving the living conditions of the people in thickly congested London districts where no land is available for new housing; and how the Government proposes to make the present tenements and small houses in these districts fit for heroes to live in?
§ The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the LOCAL GOVERNMENT BOARD (Major Astor)It is proposed to grant financial assistance towards rehousing schemes undertaken in connection with improvement and reconstruction schemes under Parts I. and II. of the Housing of the Working Classes Act, 1890. The question of additional powers for the improvement and adaptation of existing accommodation is being carefully considered in connection with the Housing Bill.
§ 44. Mr. GODFREY LOCKER-LAMPSONasked the President of the Local Government Board if he is aware of a committee, formed by the local authorities in Greater London, which has formulated a scheme for a joint committee to consider and carry out, if necessary, the programme for housing as a whole; and whether he is in favour of such a scheme?
§ Major ASTORA conference of county and local authorities has been considering the question of housing in Greater London, and has, I am informed, passed a resolution to the effect that it is desirable that all the local authorities of Greater London should work together in carrying out as a co-ordinated whole any schemes that have been, or may be, adopted by such authorities. My right hon. Friend is not without hope that some solution of this difficult question may be found, and he has intimated to representatives of the local authorities concerned that he shall be happy to co-operate with them with this object.
§ Mr. BILLINGWhen may we expect the Housing Bill?
§ Major ASTORI would say that no time is being lost.