HC Deb 22 July 1937 vol 326 cc2389-90
69. Mr. Groves

asked the Minister of Health whether he is aware that four families who have lived in the same houses in High Road, Leytonstone, have to leave their homes because they have been decided by the officers of the Leyton Council to be not in all respects reasonably fit for human habitation; whether he will make inquiries as to whether these houses are controlled and as to the state of these dwellings, inasmuch as one tenant was informed that a reason for the demolition order being issued was the lack of air space in the pantry; and whether he will urge upon the local authority, as the warrants for ejectment were issued on their application, to provide at least temporary accommodation rather than operate the ejectment orders issued by the court?

Sir K. Wood

I gather that the houses in question are the subject of individual demolition orders. I have no other knowledge of the facts, nor any jurisdiction in the matter, since appeals against such orders lie to the county court. I will communicate with the Leyton Borough Council as to the desirability of providing accommodation for the displaced families.

Mr. Groves

Does the right hon. Gentleman's information extend to the fact that the members of at least one of these families are old age pensioners, who have nothing more than their pensions upon which to live, and that they are very ill and will he, in view of that fact, use such human friendly pressure as he can to induce the Leyton Council to see that none of these people are turned into the street?

Sir K. Wood

I have said that I would.

70. Mr. Groves

asked the Minister of Health the number of houses inspected in the borough of Leyton for the years 1934, 1935, and 1936, and the number certified as not being in all respects reasonably fit for human habitation?

Sir K. Wood

As the answer contains a number of figures, I will, with the hon. Member's permission, circulate it in the OFFICIAL REPORT.

Following are the particulars:

— 1934. 1935. 1936.
Number of houses inspected. 3,958 3,471 3,640
Number found not to be in all respects reasonable fit for human habitation. 1,648 1,718 1,612