§ 53. Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHYasked the Minister of Health whether it is the intention of the Government to make arrangements to abolish the existing subsidies on the building of houses?
§ The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the MINISTRY of HEALTH (Sir Kingsley Wood)My right hon. Friend is at present in touch with representatives of the local authorities on this subject, but he is not yet able to make any statement.
§ Lieut. - Commander KENWORTHYWhen will a statement be made, in view of the importance of local authorities knowing exactly where they stand in the matter?
§ Sir K. WOODMy right hon. Friend will endeavour to make a statement before the Recess, but I do not know whether it will be possible.
§ Mr. THURTLEWill the hon. Member bring to the notice of his right hon. Friend the important statement made yesterday by the chairman of the London County Council Housing Committee, showing how acute the housing shortage still is in London?
§ Mr. R. RICHARDSONIn my own area also they are very far from—
§ Sir K. WOODMy right hon. Friend is fully aware of the circumstances, and also that considerable progress is being made.
Commander WILLIAMSWill the hon. Gentleman consider the necessity for continuing to encourage iron houses or steel houses, as well as ordinary houses?