51. Mr. TREVELYAN THOMSONasked the Prime Minister if, in view of the increasing shortage of dwelling houses, the Government will take steps whereby local authorities may temporarily commandeer any dwelling houses which are being kept unoccupied, either with the object of securing a higher sale price at a later date, or pending conversion into 1529 hotels, clubs, warehouses, or other premises?
§ Dr. ADDISONMy right hon. Friend has asked me to reply to this question. The powers of local authorities to acquire land compulsorily extend to the acquisition of dwelling houses, and, as I stated in the reply which I gave to my hon. Friend yesterday, I am recommending local authorities to exercise their powers of purchasing houses in suitable circumstances.
Mr. THOMSONIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that the cost of purchase is a much heavier charge on the public purse than that of hiring, and also takes much longer time, and houses are wanted immediately?