§ 63. Mr. LOGANasked the Minister of Health whether he is prepared to advocate the redevelopment of slum areas 1431 rather than extension of towns into the countryside; whether he is aware of the intensification of the satellite town poverty problem caused by housing unemployed in outer areas; and what steps, if any, he is taking to remedy the grievance?
§ Sir K. WOODThe extent to which the housing needs of a district can best be met by the redevelopment of central areas or by other building is a matter for the consideration of the local authority. Where redevelopment schemes are undertaken under the powers conferred upon local authorities by the Act of 1935—and I may congratulate the hon. Member on the fact that Liverpool has been the first authority to obtain approval of such a scheme—the expeditious execution of a scheme may well involve both types of development.
§ Mr. LOGANIn regard to the physical trouble, which I know exists, is it not possible to get returns of the various housing developments which have taken place to see how far injury is being caused in this way?
§ Sir K. WOODPerhaps the hon. Member will have a word with me about this matter.
§ Sir J. NALLMay I ask the right hon. Gentleman to take up this matter with the Manchester City Council in view of the deplorable state of certain parts of Manchester?
§ Sir K. WOODIf the hon. Member will communicate with me, I will look into the matter.