39. Mr. T. THOMSONasked the Minister of Health whether, in view of the uncertainty in the minds of local authorities as to future building grants, he will make a pronouncement at an early date as to whether he proposes to take any action to vary the State contributions under Section 5 of the Housing (Financial Provisions) Act, 1924?
Mr. CHAMBERLAINAs I have previously stated in reply to questions on this subject, Section 5 of the Housing Act, 1924, requires that the review of the subsidy at present payable shall be undertaken after the 1st October next, and I am not in a position to anticipate the review which must be undertaken under he Statute six months hence.
Mr. THOMSONCan the right hon. Gentleman say what will be the position of local authorities after 1st October, until he has made this review?
§ Mr. PALINGCan the right hon. Gentleman say whether any local authorities have declined to proceed with building' schemes because of the uncertainty that exists in regard to this subsidy?