44. Mr. T. THOMSONasked the Minister of Health if he has received representations from local authorities as to the number of empty houses withheld from occupation in overcrowded areas; and will he reconsider the possibility of Taking steps to secure the use of such houses?
Mr. CHAMBERLAINI have received representations from a number of local authorities on the subject of empty houses. As I have previously pointed out, local authorities already have power to purchase or lease houses suitable for the working classes, and I do not consider it would be practicable to introduce further legislation on the subject.