HC Deb 25 June 1920 vol 130 cc2545-7
Mr. HOGGE

(by Private Notice) asked the Minister of Health whether his attention had been drawn to a statement which has appeared to the effect that he is con- templating the introduction of a measure to provide that no private building operations or repair works shall be undertaken except under a licence to be issued by the local authority and confirmed by his Department, and whether he can make an announcement?

The MINISTER OF HEALTH (Dr. Addison)

The statement to which my hon. Friend has drawn attention is without foundation. The provisions in the Housing (Additional Powers) Act in regard to the prohibition of luxury buildings seem to me to require some amendment, but I have no intention of proposing a system of licensing for this purpose.

Mr. HOGGE

When does the right hon. Gentleman propose to introduce the amendment?

Dr. ADDISON

The luxury provision may require some amendment. Various representations have been made to us by the local authorities as to their difficulties, and these are now being considered. I cannot say more than that at the present time.

Mr. STURROCK

Can the right hon. Gentleman say whether these provisions will apply to Scotland?

Dr. ADDISON

All I can say is that at the present time we are considering the difficulties which have been put before us by the local authorities.

Captain WEDGWOOD BENN

Does not the Parliamentary Under-Secretary for Health for Scotland have special supervision over these matters in Scotland?

Dr. ADDISON

I am not competent to answer that question; I have nothing to do with it.

Major BARNES

As this is a matter which affects not only the local authorities but the great building industry, architects, builders and everybody concerned, is the right hon. Gentleman taking any steps to confer with the industry before coming to any conclusion upon this matter? I think it would be some relief to the industry to know?

Dr. ADDISON

We have taken that course in the past. The matter is quite in the early stage at the moment, but I am glad to have had the opportunity of correcting the statement which has appeared.