HC Deb 15 December 1925 vol 189 cc1177-9
33. Mr. BUCHANAN

asked the Secretary for Scotland if he has made inquiry

of the slow progress that is being made, he will consider the introduction of legislation to prevent owners receiving rent for houses declared by the sanitary authorities as unfit for habitation?

Sir J. GILMOUR

As the reply to this question involves a tabular statement, I propose, with the hon. Member's permission, to circulate it in the OFFICIAL REPORT.

Mr. STEPHEN

Can the right hon. Gentleman give me an answer to the last part of the question?

Sir J. GILMOUR

As to the last question, I have given this matter consideration. It was also reviewed by the Constable Committee, and I am not in a position, therefore, to make any statement beyond what I have made.

Mr. STEPHEN

Do I understand from that that it will be possible in the new Session that the Minister may take some stops with regard to these insanitary houses, and the rents that are being extorted for them?

Sir J. GILMOUR

No, Sir; I cannot give any definite undertaking.

Following is the tabular statement:

The figures for the period from 1st November, 1924, to 30th November, 1925, are as follow:

into the position of house building in Glasgow under the Housing Acts, and the number of unemployed building workers; and what action, if any, he has taken?

Sir J. GILMOUR

As the result of inquiries that I have made since the hon. Member's question of 8th instant, I have ascertained that the shortage of plasterers is still more acute than was then stated. I am informed that on the 12th instant there were only six unemployed plasterers in Glasgow, of whom three are about 70 years of age and two between the ages of 60 and 65. If the shortage of plasterers could be overcome considerable expedition of house building could be achieved. The Glasgow Corporation, as the result of a deputation which they recently received from the building trade workers, have made a special remit to their housing committee to consider how housing schemes can be expedited. I am prepared to give any proposals the corporation may put before me the fullest consideration, and I am keeping the matter generally under close observation.