§ 33. Colonel DAYasked the Minister of Health whether he is aware that large numbers of people in receipt of poor relief are having to pay exorbitant rentals for unfurnished rooms; and whether any measures are being taken to deal adequately with such cases?
§ Sir K. WOODMy right hon. Friend's attention has been called to the existence of cases of this kind. The remedy of securing, in the County Court, an apportionment of rent is available and the guardians should see that recourse is had to this remedy in suitable cases.
§ Colonel DAYIs the hon. Gentleman aware that in one case at Hull where the pre-War rental of a house was £20 per year, a total of £208 per year is now being charged for the same house in separate apartments?
§ Mr. THURTLEAre we to understand from the hon. Gentleman's answer that the obligation rests upon the boards of guardians to take action in such cases?
§ Sir K. WOODAs regards the matter referred to in the question it is suggested that the guardians should act. As regards the particular case to which the hon. and gallant Gentleman the Member for Central Southwark (Colonel Day) has referred, I am not aware of the details, but there also they should take notice of the answer to this question.
§ Colonel DAYDoes not the hon. Gentleman think this is a case for direct Government action?
§ Sir K. WOODNo, Sir. There is already a remedy under the Statute.