HC Deb 10 May 1922 vol 153 cc2166-7
38. Mr. KENNEDY

asked the Minister of Health if his attention has been drawn to reports of statements made by the local medical officer at a recent meeting of the Swansea Board of Guardians to the effect that many families were in the workhouse on account of being unable to find accommodation outside; that the evil of overcrowding is general in Swansea; that, in a case cited, eight families are paying £400 per annum for accommodation in one house, the standard rent of which is £45; and whether, in view of those disclosures, any action will be taken, in the interest of public health and for the protection of families compelled to accept accommodation as sub-tenants?

Sir A. MOND

My attention has not previously been drawn to the statements of the local medical officer referred to, but I am aware of the housing conditions in Swansea. I have authorised the erection by the Swansea Corporation of 789 houses under the State-aided housing scheme, of which only 183 have hitherto been completed, and I am of opinion that the conditions mentioned will best be remedied by pressing on with the completion of the remaining houses.

I may add, in reference to the last part of the question, that bye-laws made by the Town Council under Section 26 of the Housing, Town Planning, etc., Act, 1910, which are specially directed to this point, have recently come into force.

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