§ 30. Mr. LANE-FOXasked the Minister of Health whether he is aware of the number of local authorities who are unable to proceed with the housing schemes in, their area owing to being unable to borrow the necessary funds, and what the policy of the Government is in the matter of finding a way for these authorities out of their difficulties, so that these schemes may proceed without further delay?
§ Sir T. WALTERSThe Public Works Loan Commissioners will be prepared to lend to local authorities having a rateable value not exceeding £200,000 who are unable to obtain loans from other sources. It is anticipated that the larger local authorities will themselves be able to obtain the capital for their present needs. My right hon. Friend the Chancellor of the Exchequer has appointed a Committee to afford guidance to local authorities, as to the steps to be taken in placing long-term loans for housing purposes.
§ Mr. LANE-FOXCan the right hon. Gentleman tell us when that Committee is likely to report, in view of the very grave urgency of the housing problem in rural districts?
§ Sir T. WALTERSAt a very early date.