HC Deb 10 March 1927 vol 203 cc1346-7
35. Mr. MARDY JONES

asked the Minister of Health whether it is the policy of the Government to allow Part II of the Rent Restrictions Act, 1923, to come into operation in due course, or whether it is proposed to extend the operation of Part I of the Rent Restrictions Act, 1923, for a further period of years?

Mr. CHAMBERLAIN

The policy to be adopted by the Government in regard to the Act in question is under consideration, but I am not at present able to make any announcement on the subject.

Mr. JONES

In view of the fact that there are hundreds of thousands at least, if not millions, of tenants coming under the Rent Restrictions Act, who are anxiously awaiting some decision, is it not advisable to take an early decition, especially in view of the fact that the Minister must lay on the Table Regulations under Part II if he is not going to continue Part I of the Act of 1923?

Mr. CHAMBERLAIN

Part I of the Act does not expire until December of the present year, and I think, therefore, it is desirable to wait a little longer and see what the conditions are nearer that time before taking any final decision.

Mr. JONES

Is it not a condition that the Regulations that may be made under Part II must be placed on the Table of both Houses of Parliament for discussion, and Resolutions passed by both Houses to make them operative? That is going to take some time, and there are plenty of data now available.

Sir BASIL PETO

Will my right hon. Friend give grave consideration to the hardship to owners of single houses who come under these Acts?

Mr. CHAMBERLAIN

Yes, Sir. I have been having a considerable number of letters from owners of the character described by my hon. Friend, and I shall have to give that matter consideration.

42. Sir W. de FRECE

asked the Minister of Health whether, in connection with the expiration of the Rent Restrictions Act this year, he is considering the desirability of gradual decontrol, especially in the cases of houses which have been long since purchased by those wishing to live in them?

Mr. CHAMBERLAIN

I can assure my hon. Friend that, before deciding on their policy in regard to a continuance of rent restriction, the Government will very carefully consider all aspects of the question.