§ 44. Mr. MILLSasked the Minister of Health whether, in view of the fact that houses for which a subsidy has been paid are being kept empty for sale, he will introduce legislation to compel owners to let the same within a limited time or to compel the owners to pay rates for the same if refusing tenants?
§ Sir A. MONDI have no evidence that this practice is in any way extensive, and I would point out that the present falling prices are unfavourable to its adoption. As regards the question of legislation, I would refer to my reply on Thursday last to the question put by the hon. Member for the Heywood and Radcliffe Division.
§ Sir F. FLANNERYIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that a large number of houses are being intentionally kept empty for the purpose of sale, and that tenancies are being refused?
§ Sir A. MONDI am aware that there are cases of the kind; but the question of dealing legislatively with the question reveals features of very great complication beyond the immediate difficulties; as to the question of rates, I am looking into it.
§ Mr. KILEYIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that in the City of London empty premises are placed upon half rates; and could not that be applied to other parts of the country?
§ Sir A. MONDI will consider that. I have been looking into the matter, but it is one of very great difficulty.