§ 59. Mr. E. BROWNasked the Minister of Health whether he has received any representation from rural and semi-rural areas as to the number of houses required in such areas; and if an early survey will be undertaken by him?
§ Mr. WHEATLEYI am aware of the need for additional housing accommodation in the rural and semi-rural areas, and the Government is giving particular 422 attention to the problem of housing in these areas. The question of a further survey is under consideration.
§ 60. Mr. BROWNalso asked the Minister of Health whether it is proposed, in advance of the new housing proposals, to make an accurate and detailed national survey of the condition of existing houses and of the need for new houses, and to give the authorities concerned ample time for the preparation of such information?
§ Mr. WHEATLEYI propose to give further consideration to the possibility of obtaining such a survey as the hon. Member has in mind, but it would clearly be impracticable, and in my view is not necessary, to obtain such detailed information in advance of the new housing proposals.
§ Mr. BROWNIs it not the fact that nobody knows what number of houses is required, or where they are required, and would it not expedite the carrying out of a big housing programme if a new return were obtained, as the 1919 return is absolutely useless for this purpose?
§ Mr. WHEATLEYThe Government are wholly satisfied that as many houses will be required as can be produced next year.