HC Deb 06 April 1932 vol 264 cc140-1
15. Mr. LEWIS

asked the Minister of Health if he is aware that, as the law stands at present, if the tenant of a house subject to the provisions of the Rent Restriction Acts dies, and his widow having succeeded him as tenant subsequently dies also, his son if he has been residing in the house can claim to succeed to the tenancy as protected by the Acts; and if he will promote legislation to prevent the owner of the property being deprived of part of its value fur an indefinite period?

Mr. E. BROWN

As my 113n. Friend is aware, it was decided in July last, in the case of Pain v. Cobb, that the right of tenancy of a deceased statutory tenant does not pass to any person after the death of his widow. If my hon. Friend bases his statement of the law, as set out in the question, on a later decision of the Courts and will inform my right, hon. Friend to what particular decision he is referring, my right hon. Friend will be pleased to communicate with him.

17. Mr. PARKINSON

asked the Minister of Health when it is proposed to introduce the Bill to amend the Rent Restrictions Acts?

Mr. E. BROWN

My right hon. Friend is not at present in a position to say when it may be possible to introduce amending legislation.

Mr. PARKINSON

Can the hon. Gentleman say whether it is likely that anything will be done in the present Session?

Mr. BROWN

I have nothing to add at the moment.

Mr. MAXTON

What is the reason for the delay? Does not the hon. Member remember that this was announced in the King's Speech?

Mr. BROWN

The hon. Member is as well aware as I am that this is a difficult and complicated matter.

Mr. BUCHANAN

Can the hon. Member say if it is not a fact that the Cabinet cannot make up its mind on this matter?

Mr. BROWN

The hon. Member is misinformed as usual about the doings of the Cabinet.

Mr. KIRKWOOD

Is the hon. Member not aware that in his own constituency they are up in arms against the Rent Restrictions Acts?

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