§ 34. Mr. Whiteleyasked the Minister of Health whether non-parlour houses with one bedroom now being built are being admitted for Government subsidy?
§ Sir K. WoodYes, Sir; such houses attract subsidy when they are built as replacement houses in respect of slum clearance operations, or, where the circumstances warrant it, when they are provided for the abatement of overcrowding.
§ Mr. WhiteleyIn view of the serious shortage of houses, will the right hon. Gentleman reconsider this matter, with a view to easing the situation, by giving a subsidy?
§ Sir K. WoodI appreciate the hon. Gentleman's point, but I think he will agree that it is better for the local authorities first to complete their replacement programmes to deal with overcrowding and then to consider the position as it will be when that has been done. There is a big programme still ahead of the local authorities in this important respect.
§ 35. Mr. Whiteleyasked the Minister of Health whether the non-parlour houses with one bedroom are being built to replace houses removed under slum-clearance schemes, or whether they are definite additions to ease the shortage of houses?
§ Sir K. WoodApproximately 60 per cent. of the non-parlour dwellings with one bedroom approved in England and Wales since 1930 have been, or are being, erected to rehouse persons displaced from unfit houses. The remainder are to meet general housing needs and the relief of overcrowding.