§ 25. Mr. WESTWOODasked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he is aware that on the Eastriggs Estate, Dum- 1890 friesshire, brick hostels, formerly Government property, each of which is capable of being converted into four houses with all the latest sanitary arrangements, are being scrapped by the firm which has acquired them; and whether, in view of the shortage of housing accommodation and of the fact that other houses on the estate have been condemned, he will take steps with a view to utilising these hostels for working-class accommodation?
§ Sir J. GILMOURFrom inquiries I have had made, it does not appear to be the case that there is a shortage of housing accommodation for the working classes at Eastriggs or that houses on the estate have been condemned. My information is that at this place there are at present 20 unlet brick houses available for immediate occupation if tenants could be found, that some of the hostels have already been converted into dwelling houses, and that the demolition of others is taking place as there is no demand or need for them either in their present state or as converted houses.