§ 58. Mr. MAXTON (for Mr. McGOVERN)asked the Secretary of State for Scotland the number of three and four apartment steel houses that are at present empty in the various schemes in Scotland; and whether he proposes to advise a reduction in the rent of these houses?
§ Mr. SKELTONOut of the 2,551 steel houses belonging to the Second Scottish National Housing Company, 3 houses of three apartments and 82 houses of four apartments were empty on 10th instant. With regard to the latter part of the question the company are bound by the terms of their agreement to fix the rents of their houses by reference to the rents charged for similar accommodation in the district. I understand, however, that the company are at present investigating the question of vacancies and are preparing a report on the subject which will be carefully considered.
§ Mr. MALLALIEUCan the hon. Gentleman say whether it was on his steel house record that the Government invited Lord Weir to act in connection with aircraft construction?