§ 21. Mr. CHORLTONasked the Minister of Health if he is aware that in the rebuilding plans proposed for the Collyhurst, Manchester, clearance area, less than one-eighth of the number of shops now existing are being provided for the dispossessed small shopkeepers; and what he proposes to do in the matter to overcome the risk of hardship?
§ The MINISTER of HEALTH (Sir Hilton Young)No, Sir. I understand that the rehousing proposals for this area, including the question of the number of shops to be provided, are still under the consideration of the City Council.
§ Mr. CHORLTONCan my right hon. Friend take any steps to prevent what is really a very deserving class, the class of small shopkeeper, being driven out of existence?
§ Sir H. YOUNGI think my hon. Friend will see that it would not be right for me to make any answer, pending the consideration of the matter by the City Council.
§ Mr. KIRKWOODIs it not the case that in all slum clearance schemes the local authorities themselves make provision for any small shopkeeper who happens to lose his business?
§ Sir H. YOUNGIn general, the local authorities have the power to do so.