HC Deb 07 April 1938 vol 334 cc520-1
60. Mr. T. Johnston

asked the Minister of Health whether his attention has been drawn to the report by the Council for Art and Industry of the costs of furnishing and equipping a working-class home; and whether in conjunotion with the Secretary of State for Scotland, he will take steps to make known the existence of that report to the local authorities who, by Section 72 of the Housing Act, 1936, are empowered to provide furniture on easy terms to tenants who are in need?

Sir K. Wood

The reply to the first part of the question is in the affirmative, and I recently opened an exhibition organised by the council. I will certainly consider on a suitable occasion whether further reference can usefully be made to this matter for the benefit of local authorities in England and Wales. As regards Scotland, I must refer the right hon. Gentleman to the Secretary of State.

Mr. Johnston

In view of the urgency of this matter and also that this means a saving of about 33½per cent. in costs to poor tenants who are compulsorily put into new houses, will the right hon. Gentleman not reconsider his attitude?

Sir K. Wood

I will consider the matter favourably, but what I want to avoid, if I can, is a separate communication on the matter, and I will take the opportunity of communicating with local authorities.