§ Sir GEOFFREY ELLIS (by Private Notice)asked the Minister of Health whether in the Housing Measure announced in the King's Speech provision will be, made for dealing with the evils of overcrowding, in addition to measures to promote the reconditioning of unfit houses dealt with in the Moyne Report; and, if so, whether he can make any statement as to the nature of the intended provisions?
§ The MINISTER of HEALTH (Sir Hilton Young)Yes, Sir. It is proposed that the Measure shall include provisions for combating the evils of overcrowding, and that assistance from public funds shall be made available for the purpose, subject to certain conditions. These provisions will be in addition to provisions dealing with reconditioning. It would not, I think, be of advantage that details of the nature of the provisions in question should be stated before the introduction of the Bill.
§ Mr. CHORLTONWill any of these subsidies be applicable to flat dwellings built in storeys?
§ Sir H. YOUNGI would refer my hon. Friend to the latter part of my answer.
§ Mr. THORNEDoes the same principle apply to overcrowded commercial offices?
§ Mr. BUCHANANMay I ask whether it is the intention—perhaps the Prime Minister can answer this—that this Bill shall cover Scotland, or is it proposed to bring in a separate Bill to deal with the problem in Scotland?
§ Sir H. YOUNGI think the hon. Member had better give me notice of that question.