HC Deb 07 March 1935 vol 298 cc2110-1
19. Mr. D. G. SOMERVILLE

asked the Minister of Health how many towns in this country have hitherto voluntarily granted compensation under the Housing Act, 1930, Section 41; and the towns in each case and the aggregate sums granted?

21. Mr. HUTCHISON

asked the Minister of Health how many cases in Essex have been brought to his notice in which, as a result of Section 41 of the Housing Act, 1930, permitting local authorities to make allowances to traders dispossessed under slum - clearance schemes, compensation has been granted to such traders?

Sir H. YOUNG

Payments under the Section are entirely at the discretion of the local authorities and do not require my consent, but, in connection with the proceedings upon the Housing Bill now before Parliament, I am now obtaining information on this matter. I will communicate further with my hon. Friends when this information is available.

Mr. SOMERVILLE

Would it be possible to circularise the various counties to deal liberally with hard cases?

Sir H. YOUNG

I do not think that is necessary.