HC Deb 10 June 1937 vol 324 cc1938-9
24. Mr. Woods

asked the Home Secretary the number of police employed, and the cost entailed, in diverting traffic into by-roads consequent upon the demolition of a building at the junction of Rosebery Avenue and Tysoe Street, in the Metropolitan Borough of Finsbury, which had begun to collapse and had become a danger to the public; and by whom such costs will be borne?

Mr. Lloyd

From 5 p.m. on 31st May to 8.30 p.m. on 1st June five constables were engaged during the day time and two during the night in regulating traffic at this junction. The men concerned were temporarily diverted from other duties and no additional cost was entailed.

32. Mr. Woods

asked the Minister of Health, for what length of time the building at the junction of Rosebery Avenue and Tysoe Street, in the Metropolitan Borough of Finsbury, which has had to be declared unsafe and caused considerable inconvenience to the public, was allowed to remain a danger to the public; how long previously had any steps been taken, either on behalf of the owner or by any inspector, to ascertain the condition of the property; and whether any steps have been taken to afford the tenants of the adjoining premises, who were removed during the night at great personal inconvenience, protection formerly enjoyed by them under the Increase of Rents Acts?

The Minister of Health (Sir Kingsley Wood)

I understand from the London County Council, who are the responsible authority in the matter under Part X of the London Building Act, 1930, that the District Surveyor first became apprehensive of the condition of the unoccupied premises known as 9–11, Tysoe Street, on the 10th April, and communicated with the owners, who decided to demolish the buildings. I understand also that alternative accommodation has been provided for the tenants of the adjoining property by the owners, but I am not aware of the exact arrangements made.

Mr. Woods

In view of the number of cases in which there has been collapse of buildings endangering human life, is the Minister satisfied that there is adequate inspection, especially of buildings of the kind referred to, which have been boarded up for 10 or 15 years, so that the defect is revealed only when the boarding is removed?

Sir K. Wood

The hon. Member will appreciate that I have no jurisdiction in this matter. It is one in certain respects for the London County Council. If the hon. Member would like me to call the attention of the Council to any particular case I shall be glad to take it up with them, and I know they will give it attention.