§ 75. Mr. L. LYLEasked the Minister of Health whether he now possesses adequate powers to compel lethargic authorities to build houses where these are urgently needed; and, if so, whether he proposes to exercise these powers?
§ Dr. ADDISONI would refer my hon. Friend to the terms of the Housing, Town Planning, &c., Act, 1919, under which I am empowered to authorise county councils to act, or may act myself, in default of local authorities who do not take adequate steps to provide the houses needed in their areas. I have for some time been pressing backward authorities to expedite their schemes, and it is my intention to use my powers where this is necessary.