HC Deb 28 October 1937 vol 328 cc246-8
56. Sir Francis Fremantle

asked the Minister of Health whether he is in a position to make any statement in regard to Exchequer grants for housing?

59. Mr. De la Bère

asked the Minister of Health whether, owing to the low rents which the agricultural workers are in a position to pay, the Government will consider increasing the amount under the Housing Act, 1936, Section 108, Exchequer contribution, in order to decrease the overcrowding which has taken place in rural districts?

Sir K. Wood

Yes, Sir. I hope to introduce in the near future a Bill dealing with the grants for slum clearance and overcrowding. The Bill will carry out my promise that contributions at the present rates shall be payable for houses completed between 31st March and 31st December, 1938, and will make new provision for grants for this purpose. I am at present in consultation with the asssociations of local authorities as to the form and amount of these grants. I propose also to include in the Bill provision to give effect to a recommendation recently made to me by the Central Housing Advisory Committee that Exchequer assistance should be made available to— wards the erection of houses for the agricultural population.

Mr. De la Bère

Will the Government consider lending money to the agricultural labourer at 2 per cent. in the same way as they have done to the railway companies, in order to enable them to buy their own homes?

Sir K. Wood

I shall be very happy to give consideration to that suggestion.

Sir F. Fremantle

Will the Minister also introduce special provision for four-bedroom houses?

Sir K. Wood

Perhaps my hon. Friend will await my discussion with the authorities.

Mr. Gallacher

Is the Minister aware that the present policy on housing results in young couples who get married being completely barred from new houses, and will he not take steps to see that money is provided for houses to let to young married couples?

Sir K. Wood

I hope that we shall be able to do more for couples of that kind.

Mr. Gallacher

Is he aware that young couples are barred from houses now?

Sir K. Wood

No, I am not.