§ 36. Mr. PETHICK-LAWRENCE (for Miss WILKINSON)asked the Minister of Health whether he is aware that in Durham Place, Middlesbrough, one water tap serves 85 people; that cases are reported of 24 people living in four rooms and eight children sleeping in one bed; and whether, in view of the burdens already borne by the ratepayers of this town, he will consider increasing rather than decreasing the housing subsidy in such case?
Mr. CHAMBERLAINI have made inquiries in regard to the matters referred to by the hon. Member. I understand that there are 17 houses in Durham Place occupied by 71 persons, that one house has a separate water supply and that there are three other taps available for the use of the remaining houses, no tap being more than 45 feet from any house. With regard to the second part of the 2174 question, the corporation are aware of a house containing seven rooms occupied by 24 persons, including a couple with eight children. It is understood that, although two rooms are at the disposal of this family, they live together in one room, but that they are only in occupation of this room until they can secure more suitable accommodation. As regards the last part of the question, it would not be practicable to grant an increased subsidy in any particular case.