§ The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the MINISTRY of HEALTH (Mr. Shakespeare)It is estimated that there are some 4,000,000 controlled "C" class houses which will remain controlled until 1938. In July, 1933, it was estimated that there were about 1,250,000 controlled "B" class houses, but since that date a certain number will have been decontrolled by the owner having come into possession. My right hon. Friend has no means of ascertaining how many of these "B" class houses have been decontrolled in this way.
Mr. WESTCan the hon. Gentleman say whether the annual number of houses being decontrolled is increasing or decreasing?
§ Mr. SHAKESPEAREIt has been slightly decreasing in so far as "B" class houses come into the possession of the owner. "C" class houses are not affected.
§ Sir FRANCIS FREMANTLECan the hon. Gentleman say anything in regard to the subletting of these houses? Is that being taken in hand and carried out according to the Act?
§ Mr. SPEAKERWe cannot discuss this matter.