§ 38. Mr. Leslieasked the Minister of Health whether, in view of the high percentage of overcrowding in the county of Durham and other distressed areas, he will take steps to secure an increase of the present limit of the Exchequer contribution, so as to enable distressed areas to carry out a long delayed and much needed programme of rehousing?
§ Sir K. WoodI have no reason to suppose that progress within the available resources of the building industry is being impeded in the Special Areas. The hon. Member is doubtless aware that as regards the County of Durham, the services of the North Eastern Housing Association are available to local authorities in the Special Area to assist them in carrying out their programmes on terms which do not involve a charge on local rates.
§ Mr. LeslieWill the right hon. Gentleman bear in mind that overcrowding is not confined to slum property, and that authorities in the poverty-stricken areas might be assisted if the full maximum of £5 were granted in each case? Does not the Minister agree?
§ Sir K. WoodYes, Sir, but they have a very ready means of dealing with this matter with the aid of this association, which is already doing such good work.
§ Mr. LeslieIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that the county council would carry out the work, and that at the present time the county council has the highest percentage of overcrowding for counties?
§ Sir K. WoodYes, Sir, I hope that the county council will proceed with this matter, but I would like to press upon the hon. Gentleman and anyone else who may be interested in this matter, the point that here is this association ready and willing to give valuable assistance.
§ Sir A. KnoxIt not the worst case of overcrowding the House of Commons?