§ 73. Mr. BOWERMANasked the Minister of Health whether he has received representations from the Deptford Borough Council regarding the practice of converting dwelling-houses on main roads into business premises; whether any statistics are available showing the number of private houses which have been converted into shops during the last few years within the Metropolitan area: and whether he will take steps to prevent further conversion during the time the shortage of housing accommodation remains acute?
§ Sir K. WOODMy right hon. Friend has received the representations in question and has given them careful consideration. Statistics are not available showing the total number of houses which have been converted into shops in the Metropolitan area during the last few years. With regard to the last part of the question, as my right hon. Friend has previously stated in the House, he does not think that a case has been established for the further restrictive legislation which would be necessary to carry out the suggestion of the hon. Member.