§ 29. Mr. E. Smithasked the Minister of Health whether under all the agreements made under the Housing Act, 1923, a ground rent has been allowed to be paid; or whether, whereas a perpetual ground rent is fixed in some areas, in others house purchasers can purchase the freehold for a sum equivalent to a 20 years' chief rent?
§ Sir K. WoodThe answer to the first part of the question is in the negative. As regards the second part, I am advised that in the absence of any provision in the contract for sale dealing with this matter, the question of the terms on which the ground rent can be redeemed would be a matter for negotiation.
§ Mr. SmithIs it not a fact that under the Act of 1923 agreements were arrived at which stated that the houses should be sold lock, stock and barrel, including the land, and if that is so, have there not been breaches of that Act in Stafford, Torquay and other districts?
§ Sir K. WoodI am not aware of those cases. As the hon. Member knows, the Ministry, in communication with local authorities, suggested these conditions. The only case I have in mind is the one referred to by the hon. Member in his earlier question, and there, unfortunately, the conditions suggested were apparently not properly imposed.
§ Mr. SmithIn view of the difficulties of the position, will the Minister give this matter his personal attention?
§ Sir K. WoodCertainly I will, and if the hon. Member will see me I will go into it fully with him.
§ Mr. H. G. WilliamsWill the Minister do all he can to assist Socialists to become owners of their houses, with the land?