§ 26. Sir W. SUGDENasked the Minister of Health what steps he is taking to assist slum clearance by alterations to Section 46 of the Housing Act, 1925; if the improvement scheme in Leeds, held up for two years by this section, is under his consideration as to its results; and what steps he proposes to take as to other schemes in the country disadvantageously affected also by the same section?
§ The MINISTER of HEALTH (Mr. Chamberlain)The whole subject of slum improvement is receiving my personal consideration, but I am not yet in a position to state when it will be possible to bring in legislation. The report made following the inquiry into the particular scheme to which my hon. Friend refers has been considered and my decision will be communicated at an early date.
§ Captain GARRO-JONESCan the right hon. Gentleman assure the House that any schemes of slum clearance which are submitted, will not be treated disadvantageously or postponed until he has arrived at some new plan?
§ Mr. CHAMBERLAINI do not know what the hon. and gallant Member means by being "treated disadvantageously." They certainly will not be postponed.
§ Mr. AUSTIN HOPKINSONCan the right hon. Gentleman say how we can start clearing slums so long as the Rent Restrictions Act remains in force?
§ Mr. CHAMBERLAINA good number of schemes have been started.