§ 63. Mr. CAIRNSasked the Minister of Health if he is aware that, for the year 1920, in the city of Newcastle-on-Tyne, 843 births occurred in one-room dwellings and that 167 of those children died, mortality 198.1 per thousand; that 2,155 births occurred in two-room dwellings and that 291 died, which is 175.3 per thousand; that 1,529 children were born 2170 in three-room dwellings and that 171 died, being at the rate of 111 per thousand mortality; and, if these statements are true, will he try to put a stop to such a state of affairs by erecting more suitable homes for the poor?
§ Sir A. MONDI am aware of the report of the Medical Officer of Health of Newcastle containing the particulars in the first part of the question. The housing situation in Newcastle is that approval has been given under the local authorities' scheme for 1,003 houses, of which 482 have been completed, 289 are in various stages of construction, and 232 have not yet been commenced. I shall continue to keep the situation under careful review.
§ Mr. RAFFANAre not the figures given for Newcastle-on-Tyne typical of the whole country wherever there is serious overcrowding?