97. Dr. MORGANasked the Minister of Health whether his attention has been drawn to the numerous cases of over crowding in the South-East of London; whether he is aware that in areas where the Housing Acts are largely inoperative there have been many unnecessary prosecutions of poor persons unable to find alternative accommodation; that some have been imprisoned for this offence; that many of those prosecuted have been declined as tenants by local authorities; and whether he is proposing to take any legislative steps dealing with this question.
§ Mr. GREENWOODI am aware of the housing conditions in the South-East of London. My hon. Friend has brought some particulars to my notice, but I have no information as regards the second, third and fourth parts of the question. I have already, as he is aware, introduced legislation to facilitate the provision of additional housing accommodation by local authorities, and it is my intention to introduce further legislation dealing with the slum problem.
Dr. MORGANWill the right hon. Gentleman consider the advisability of issuing the circular to the local authorities specially in London who have not done their duty in regard to providing housing accommodation?
§ Mr. GREENWOODIt is not always possible for me to find out the particulars of such cases.