§ 44. Mr. THORNEasked the Minister of Health why his Department has refused a grant for the reconditioning of a cottage at Lockeridge Dene, near Marlborough; whether he is aware that the cottage is under the control of his Department and that the Wiltshire County Council have decided that they are not prepared to make a grant under 1859 the provisions of the Rural Workers' Housing Act; and what action he intends taking in the matter?
§ Mr. SHAKESPEAREThe hon. Member is under a misapprehension. He is no doubt referring to a cottage recently purchased by my right hon. Friend, in order that he might recondition it. The Ministry of Health is in no way concerned whether in the control of the cottage or in refusing a grant in respect of it. The latter is a matter solely within the discretion of the local authority, in this case the Wiltshire County Council, who, I am informed, have not made the decision stated in the question.