HC Deb 08 June 1937 vol 324 c1593
74. Lieut.-Colonel Sir Mervyn Manningham-Buller

asked the Minister of Health whether he is aware of the dissatisfaction caused to the Northampton Town Council by his refusal to sanction a loan for the building of houses urgently required for the abatement of overcrowding and for the general needs of the working classes in their area; and whether, in the general interest of health and in view of the fact that building costs are not likely to fall in the near future, he will reconsider his decision?

Mr. Bernays

My right hon. Friend has not received any communication from the council since he suggested to them that, in view of the amount of work in hand and the pressure on the building industry indicated by the unfavourable tenders which they had received, further contracts should be deferred for the present. My hon. and gallant Friend will need no assurance from my right hon. Friend that he is anxious to secure good housing conditions as quickly as is practicable. If desired, I shall be glad to arrange for my officers to meet representatives of the council again on a convenient occasion.