§ 53. Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHYasked the Minister of Health whether, in 638 order to assist local authorities and to lessen the holding up of slum-clearance and town-planning and improvement schemes, he will circulate the terms of the proposed slum-clearance Bill for their information; and whether the general form of the Bill, including the financial provisions, is now settled?
§ Mr. GREENWOODI do not think that the suggestion of my hon. and gallant Friend is a practicable one; I hope to be able to introduce the Bill at an early date.
§ Lieut. - Commander KENWORTHYIs my right hon. Friend aware that in the case of several Bills, including, presumably, the Transport Bill, the text has been circulated for the information of those concerned, and will he reconsider the matter?
§ Mr. GREENWOODI am now in negotiation with the local authorities.
§ Mr. STEPHENWill the Bill be introduced before Christmas—or rather, before Easter?
§ Mr. GREENWOODI hope before both.
§ 54. Mr. THOMAS LEWISasked the Minister of Health whether he is aware that the Southampton Borough Council has decided to postpone for six months proceeding with five slum-clearance schemes pending forthcoming legislation, and that decision was a result of an interview by representatives of the council with officials at the Ministry of Health who had expressed surprise at such schemes being proceeded with at the present time owing to the possibility of legislation; and when such legislation is likely to be introduced?
§ Mr. GREENWOODAt a recent interview with an officer of my Department, the Town Clerk of Southampton was informed that, on account of a decision of the Courts, local authorities were holding up schemes until further legislation had been passed. I have not been informed what decision the town council have reached. I hope to be able to introduce legislation at an early date.