§ 66. Mr. THURTLEasked the Minister of Health whether he is aware of the fact that there are dwelling houses in Essex Street, Shoreditch, in which the average number of occupants per room exceeds five; and if, in view of the moral and social consequences of such overcrowding, he is prepared to take power to acquire some of the large number of empty houses in the Sloane Square neighbourhood in order to provide better accommodation for the people?
§ Mr. WHEATLEYI am aware of the overcrowded conditions in Central London. Local authorities have power to acquire and adapt large empty houses, 1317 but experience has shown that this is not usually the most economical means of providing fresh accommodation. I am satisfied that the best remedy for overcrowding is the building of new houses.
§ Mr. THURTLEIs it not the fact that, in the crowded areas, there is no space for the building of new houses.
§ Lord EUSTACE PERCYIs it the case that many local authorities are in doubt as to the extent of the powers under Section 12 of the Act of 1919; and will the right hon. Gentleman take steps to inform them of what their powers are in the matter?
§ Mr. WHEATLEYYes, if should be shown that there is any doubt about it, I will take the necessary steps to educate them on the subject.
§ Sir K. WOODIs it not a fact that the right hon. Gentleman himself advocated the suggestion made in the question only a few months ago?
§ Mr. WHEATLEYNo, I do not think the hon. Member will find any evidence in those old pamphlets for such a suggestion.