§ 29. Mr. ALEXANDER RAMSAYasked the Minister of Health if his attention 1918 has been drawn to the serious shortage of housing accommodation in certain Midland towns; and what steps he proposes to take in the public interest to increase the production of houses?
§ The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the MINISTRY of HEALTH (Mr. Shakespeare)My right hon. Friend has received resolutions to the effect suggested from certain towns in the Midlands and elsewhere. It is open to and is, indeed, the duty of the local authorities to submit to him any proposals for providing further houses which may be required and are not being provided by private enterprise.
§ Mr. RAMSAYIn view of the appalling shortage of houses and the fact that none have been built, cannot my hon. Friend formulate a policy which will do credit to the Government?
§ Mr. SHAKESPEAREI do not accept the statement that none have been built, because the building at present and next year will constitute a record.
§ Mr. BOOTHBYIs it a fact, as stated, that in the view of the Ministry there are already sufficient houses to let at a rent of 10s. and under?