HC Deb 03 May 1922 vol 153 cc1332-4
55. Mr. MILLS

asked the Minister of Health whether he is aware that the Cor- poration of Kingston-upon-Thames have intimated that the houses erected by them, with financial assistance from the State, are to be sold and will not be let to would-be tenants; whether this decision of the local authority was made with his knowledge and sanction; and whether he will issue an instruction that, in view of the present housing shortage and of the inability of many people to purchase, houses erected under the Government scheme are not to be kept vacant pending purchase?

Sir A. MOND

The answer to the first and second parts of the question is in the affirmative. I have always encouraged the sale of houses by local authorities, and I am anxious that wherever ready sales can be effected, as I am informed is the case here, this course should be adopted. I fully appreciate the objection to keeping houses empty without sufficient reason, and I am in communication with the Council as to the steps to be taken to secure the early occupation of these houses.

Mr. MILLS

Does the right hon. Gentleman suggest that the national housing programme initiated by His Majesty's Government had for its object the endowment of houses built for sale, when millions of His Majesty's subjects cannot afford rent much less purchase money, and will he take steps to reconsider that decision having regard to that fact that many urban councils have refused the overtures made by responsible—[HON. MEMBERS: "Order!"]—Order yourself. [HON. MEMBERS: "Speech!"]

Sir A. MOND

I do not know what the hon. Member means. Obviously if there are people who want to buy houses who have the purchase money they will buy houses. I am in favour on behalf of the Exchequer and the local authorities of enabling people to buy houses if the opportunity arises, as this will save a large loss to the Exchequer.

Mr. AMMON

Did not the right hon. Gentleman suggest that these houses should be sold at 50 per cent, of their value, and would not that have the effect of making a present to the property owners at the expense of the community.

Sir A. MOND

I do not think so. The houses will be sold to those who want to occupy them. In the opinion of the Geddes Committee a great saving to the Exchequer will result if the houses are sold.

Mr. MILLS

The Geddes Committee looked at it from the business point of view, and I am looking at it from the human point of view.

Sir A. MOND

It is just as human for a man to live in a house he owns as to live in a house he rents.