§ 30. Major NATHANasked the Minister of Health whether he has now obtained any particulars from the London County Council as to the number of underground rooms habitually used as sleeping places in the administrative county of London that are unfit for human habitation within the meaning of Section 18 of the Housing Act, 1925?
Sir H. YOUNGYes, Sir. I understand that the returns being obtained by the London County Council are still incomplete, but those received up to date show 7,186 rooms within the description used by the hon. Member.
§ Major NATHANHas the right hon. Gentleman taken steps to secure the completion of the returns; and by what date does he expect to receive full information?
Sir H. YOUNGThe returns are undoubtedly being pressed to completion by the county council, but I could not give a date without reference.
Viscountess ASTORWould it not be almost better if the Government commandeered unoccupied houses in which to put people who are now living in underground dwellings? Would not that be in accordance with the feeling of most people in the country?
§ Mr. MACQUISTENMight not the Government proceed to commandeer the houses of wealthy people who have many mansions?