§ 57. Mr. MILLSasked the Prime Minister whether, in view of the prevalent misconception of the powers of the Government as to the carrying out of the Housing Act, 1924, he will consider the usage of the advertising columns of newspapers and other means of publicity used by previous Governments to acquaint citizens of their local responsibility?
§ Mr. A. GREENWOODMy right hon. Friend (Mr. Wheatley) is not aware of any general misconception. The responsibility for the local administration of the Housing Acts rests with the local authority, and on the 20th August a full explanatory circular (Circular No. 520) was sent to local authorities, setting out their powers and duties under the Act of 1924. The circular has been placed on sale, and copies may be obtained from the Stationery Office, or through any bookseller.
§ Mr. MILLSIs the Parliamentary Secretary not aware that in spite of this Act, and in spite of it being within the 318 knowledge of Members of this House, they have not hesitated to go on the platforms of the country, and state that the Housing Act of the Government is a dead letter, and will never be worked?
§ Mr. SPEAKERI am afraid that is rather a commonplace in political controversy.
§ Mr. E. BROWNIn view of Circular No. 520, to which the Parliamentary Secretary referred, not coming into the hands of ordinary citizens, who have to exercise pressure in one way or another upon local councils, can the hon. Member see his way to recommend to the Prime Minister that a synopsis of that very admirable Circular should be placed in every village Post Office for the information of the citizens?
§ Mr. GREENWOODI will certainly convey that suggestion to my right hon. Friend.