33. Mr. TREVELYAN THOMSONasked the Minister of Health whether he is aware that considerable dissatisfaction exists amongst local authorities with regard to the Regulations governing the financial assistance available for housing schemes, which were laid before the House on the 22nd ultimo, and which local authorities feel do not guarantee them against being involved in a financial loss in excess of the produce of a penny rate, notwithstanding their endeavours to grapple with the housing problem; and is he willing to modify these Regulations so as to meet their legitimate fears on this point?
§ Sir T. WALTERSI would refer the hon. Member to the reply given on the 5th instant to the hon. Member for Shrewsbury. As I stated in that reply, local authorities will not be called upon to bear more than the proceeds of a penny rate in connection with their housing schemes unless, in the opinion of the Minister of Health, confirmed in the event of any dispute by an independent person, they have failed to charge sufficient rents or make adequate arrangements for supervision, management, or administration. It seems to me that the Regulations fully safeguard the position of the local authorities, but I am willing to consider any suggestions that may be made to me for a declaration on points as to which there may be any doubt.