§ 34. Mr. MARDY JONESasked the Minister of Health what is the total number of houses decontrolled under the operation of the Rents Restriction Acts: and, failing exact data, will he state what is the approximate estimate of his Department of the number of houses decontrolled from the commencement of the operation of the Rent Restrictions Act, 1923, to the end of 1926?
Mr. CHAMBERLAINThere are no statistics on the point referred to by the hon. Member, and there is not sufficient material available to enable such an estimate as is suggested to be made.
§ Mr. JONESIs it not a matter of common knowledge throughout the country that, ever since the decontrol of houses under the Rent Restrictions Act, 1923, house-owners have taken advantage of the Clause regarding decontrol, and have deliberately held up houses from being let, so that they can be sold at exorbitant prices? Is not that part of the housing scandal arising out of the administration of this Government?