§ 62. Lieut. - Commander FLETCHERasked the Minister of Health, with reference to the housing shortage, if he has received any proposals from local authorities relative to the erection of wooden houses; and what steps he has taken or proposes to take to bring to the attention of such authorities the fact that he is prepared to consider such proposals in relation to the Government housing scheme?
§ Mr. WHEATLEYA small number of proposals have been received from local authorities for the erection of houses mainly constructed of wood, or for sanction to grant financial aid to such houses, and in some cases approval has been given. I believe the position as regards special methods of construction is generally understood by local authorities, but I will note the hon. Member's suggestion in connection with the issue of a circular following the passing of the Housing Bill.
§ Lieut.-Colonel FREMANTLEWould the Minister make some kind of public investigation of the statements in regard to the length of life of these wooden houses, inasmuch as there is a great feeling as to the value of wooden houses, and instances have been brought forward as to their length of life, and yet the general feeling of those who have had experience, as I have, in condemning insanitary houses, is that their life is not long enough to justify the comparative saving in cost?
§ Mr. WHEATLEYI think that that information might be very valuable, and I will endeavour to obtain it.
§ Captain EDENIs it not the fact that some of these houses have been in good repair for between 80 and 100 years?
§ Mr. WHEATLEYI do not know, but I have known some that were not in good repair after ten years.