HC Deb 30 May 1935 vol 302 cc1297-8
43. Mr. GRAHAM

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he is aware of a lack of housing accommodation in the burgh of Hamilton and many parts of the county of Lanark; that as a consequence many houses at present inhabited are in an uninhabitable condition, and that, due to the long continued unemployment in that area, many families have been evicted and have no alternative but to occupy empty houses that have been closed under closing orders, thus rendering themselves liable to fine and imprisonment; and whether any action can, or will, be taken by his Department to provide temporary accommodation for those families until houses can be provided?

Sir G. COLLINS

The reply to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. With regard to the second and third parts, I am informed that in the burgh of Hamilton a number of families are occupying houses that are subject to demolition or closing orders. No such cases are known to exist in the county area. As regards the last part, I am informed that no temporary accommodation is available, but the local authorities are proceeding with the erection of 3,014 houses in the burgh of Hamilton and the county of Lanark.

Mr. GRAHAM

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that a man was convicted in the Hamilton Sheriff Court on Monday of this week, and can he inform me whether houses that are being built will

of outdoor relief at the end of March and April, 1935?

Sir G. COLLINS

I propose, with the hon. Member's permission, as the reply involves a table of figures, to circulate it in the OFFICIAL REPORT.

Following is the table:

be eligible for letting to the persons who occupy these houses which are closed under a closing order?

Sir G. COLLINS

I am aware of the case referred to, but as the hon. Member well knows the question of who are to occupy these houses is entirely a matter for the local authority.

Mr. GRAHAM

Is it the view of the Department that there is to be no alternative to imprisonment or fine for the persons who are involved in this question?

Sir G. COLLINS

I hope that no answer of mine at any time has led anyone to think that.

Mr. MACQUISTEN

If a man sleeps in a derelict house and there is no other house available, he should be left alone. If he sleeps in the open he will be imprisoned for that.