§ 39. Mr. E. SIMONasked the Minister of Health what number of new working-class houses he estimates to be necessary to make up for present arrears, to replace old houses to be closed between now and 1938, and to meet the prospective increase in population between now and 1939?
§ Mr. WHEATLEYPerhaps I may refer the hon. Member to the statement I made on this subject on the Easter Adjournment. While it is not practicable to make a close estimate of the total number of houses required, I am satisfied that the Government are not overestimating in aiming at the production of 2,500,000 houses for Great Britain during the next 15 years in order to meet the needs to which the hon. Member refers.
§ Mr. SIMONIs the right hon. Gentleman taking into consideration the new information which is referred to in Question No. 41?
§ Mr. WHEATLEYYes. I am taking into consideration all the information at my disposal.
§ Mr. SIMONDoes that mean that there will be a much smaller increase in the population during the next 15 years?
§ Mr. WHEATLEYI think it would facilitate business if I dealt with Question 41 when we reach it.
§ Mr. D. G. SOMERVILLEDoes the right hon. Gentleman still anticipate that 2,500,000 houses will be built in 15 years?
§ Mr. WHEATLEYYes, at least that number.