§ 26. Mr. LANSBURY (for Dr. SALTER)asked the Minister of Health whether he is aware that, following the reduction in the subsidy, there has been a marked falling of in the number of houses under construction or authorised under the 1923 and 1924 Acts; and whether, with a view to stimulating local authorities to undertake wide schemes of building for letting, he will give an early assurance that the present rates of Exchequer assistance will be available for all houses completed by 30th September, 1929?
Mr. CHAMBERLAINI am aware that as compared with the abnormally high rate of house construction just before the reduction of the subsidy became operative, the subsequent statistics showed a falling off in the rate of house building. The latest figures indicate that the rate is now increasing again. With regard to the last part of the question, although I cannot, of course, anticipate what the result will be of the statutory review of the subsidy at present payable, which must be undertaken after the 1st October next, I have in the meantime decided that houses completed by the 31st March, 1929, shall, if otherwise eligible, qualify for subsidy at the existing rates.