§ 58. Mr. DAYasked the Minister of Health whether the Southwark Borough Council have built any houses under the Housing Acts of 1919, 1923 and 1924; whether he is aware of the hardship created by the number of families living in overcrowded conditions in this borough; and whether any new schemes for the relief of this congestion is under consideration?
§ The MINISTER of HEALTH (Mr. Arthur Greenwood)The answer to the first part of the question is in the negative. As my hon. Friend is aware, there are no vacant sites in the borough for the relief of the overcrowded conditions which exist in the borough; it is necessary to rely primarily on the provisions undertaken by the London County Council. That authority is carrying out a large programme of building which includes a number of schemes for providing housing accommodation in the inner parts of London. The county council have also undertaken schemes for dealing with unhealthy areas in the borough. As regards the last part of the question, I would refer my hon. Friend to the Bill which has just been laid before the House.
§ Mr. DAYWill the right hon. Gentleman use his good offices with the London County Council to see that certain provision is made for the residents in the borough of Southwark, who are at present living under disgraceful conditions?
§ Mr. GREENWOODThe county council, as I have said in my answer, has taken steps to provide accommodation in the inner parts of London.
§ Mr. DAYIs the right hon. Gentleman not aware that the county council has absolutely refused to make provision to relieve this congestion?