§ 39. Mr. RHYS DAVIESasked the Minister of Health whether he has received a communication from the Tilbury Urban District Council protesting against the decision of the Ministry to demand an increase of rent of State-assisted houses built for the working classes in the area of that local authority; and whether, in view of the poverty of the people living in those houses, he can see his way clear to reconsider his decision in this connection?
Mr. CHAMBERLAINIt has not been found possible to reach an agreement regarding the rents of the houses built by the Tilbury Urban District Council under the Assisted Housing Scheme, and the question has, therefore, been referred for decision to the independent tribunal constituted under the Regulations.
§ Mr. DAVIESIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that 90 per cent. of the men living in Tilbury are casual workers in 1340 receipt of not more than £2 a week in wages on the average, and how can they be expected to pay 17s. 10d. a week rent for their homes?
Mr. CHAMBERLAINNo doubt that consideration will be taken into account by the tribunal when they come to consider the case.
§ Mr. McENTEEIs it a fact that in cases like the one under discussion the Ministry refers them to the local authority, whereas the local authority has no power, except with the sanction of the Department, to make any reduction?
Mr. CHAMBERLAINIf the local authority and the Minister do not agree, the case goes to an independent tribunal for final decision.