§ 21. Mr. McKINLAYasked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he is aware that the usual subsidy of £9 per house was exceeded by the Glasgow Corporation and £11 per house offered to a private firm, and that this offer was increased by the corporation to £12 10s. per house; and whether he will take steps to protect the public funds in this regard?
§ The UNDER-SECRETARY of STATE for SCOTLAND (Mr. Johnston)The amount of subsidy payable by a local authority to private builders in terms of the Housing (Financial Provisions) Act, 1924, is a matter primarily for the decision of the local authority. They are not limited to a payment of £9, which is the amount of the State contribution, but may increase that sum by a payment from local rates. In the case of Glasgow, the original scheme of assistance framed by the corporation with the approval of the Department of Health for Scotland fixed the rate at £13 10s. per house. Later this rate was reduced to £9, and the approval of the Department was given on 9th October last. Prior to that date the corporation granted subsidy in two instances at the rate of £12 10s. per house. As this rate was not in accordance with that specified in the approved scheme, steps were taken by the Department to ensure that in future the approved rate will not be departed from without their prior approval. I am informed that the corporation have never offered £11 per house to a private firm.
§ Mr. MACQUISTENIn view of the powers that are disclosed over the Glasgow Corporation in this matter, is it not within the power of the hon. Gentleman to use these powers to prevent them using slates which are not quarried in Scotland?
Mr. JAMES WELSH (Paisley)Has the hon. Gentleman any control over the rental of these houses, in view of the considerable reduction in their cost?
§ Mr. SPEAKERThat does not arise out of the question.