§ 58. Mr. G. EDWARDSasked the Minister of Health whether he is aware that, in connection with new houses built in Norfolk, sanction was given for the rents to be fixed at one-sixth of the wages of the tenants; that these tenants are agricultural labourers whose wages have been substantially reduced in consequence of recent legislation; whether he has received any requests that the rents of the 1322 houses should be reduced proportionately; and whether he will sanction this proportionate reduction, or, at least, some reduction in the rents at present in force?
§ Sir A. MONDNo sanction has been given to the fixing of rents at a definite proportion of the wages of the tenants. The rents approved for a large proportion of the rural parishes of Norfolk are as low as 5s., and I do not think that any reduction below that figure can be made.
§ Mr. EDWARDSIs it not a fact that, in consequence of serious reductions in the agricultural labourers' wages, the local authorities now find it impossible to let the houses to the labourers; if so, will he receive a deputation of the local authorities?
§ Sir A. MONDI am not aware of the fact, but I shall be pleased to see whether I can receive a deputation.