HC Deb 01 May 1928 vol 216 cc1500-1
26. Mr. STEPHEN

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland the number of houses in Scotland under construction, and the number of houses authorised but not started, at the latest available date, and the similar figures for last year at the same date under the Housing Acts, 1923 and 1924, respectively?

Sir J. GILMOUR

As the information desired involves a number of figures, I propose, with the hon. Member's permission, to circulate it in the OFFICIAL REPORT.

Following is the information:

without facilities for such treatment, either at a centre situated within its borders or by arrangements with another local authority. With regard to towns of a population of 10,000 and over, the position is as stated in my reply to the hon. Member's question of 17th April. I am aware that a certain number of persons suffering from venereal disease may shift from place to place, and, indeed, for one important class of persons who frequently move, namely, sailors, treatment facilities have been specially provided in the principal ports. As I have stated in my previous answer already referred to, the development of venereal disease schemes in all areas is being carefully watched and reviewed by the Scottish Board of Health, and in connection with the Budget proposals I have under consideration the whole position of local administration in Scotland. I do not think that at present any good purpose would be served by the appointment of a committee of inquiry such as the hon. Member suggests.

Mr. E. BROWN

In view of the statement about seamen, could the right hon. Gentleman see his way in the next return of the Board of Health to deduct the number of seamen who are really not defaulters?

Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY

Is the right hon. Gentleman suggesting in his answer that seamen are particularly suffering from this disease, and is he aware that the Ministry of Health statistics do not show that?

Sir J. GILMOUR

All that my answer suggests or implies is that seamen, as the hon. and gallant Gentleman knows, leave certain districts, and, subject to that, arrangements are being made for special facilities at the ports.