HC Deb 08 February 1938 vol 331 cc832-3
72. Mr. Kirkwood

asked the Secretary of State for Scotand whether, in view of the development of municipal housing, he will take steps to amend the law under which councillors who are tenants of municipal houses are prevented from voting on any proposal affecting rents and conditions of tenants?

Mr. Elliot

The position is governed by Section 107 of the Housing (Scotland) Act, 1925, by which a member of a local authority is prohibited from voting on a matter arising under the Housing (Scotland) Acts if it relates to any house, building or land in which he is beneficially interested. I am unable to make any statement as to amendment of the provision in question.

Mr. Kirkwood

Will the Minister reconsider his decision as this is a terrible hardship on working-class representatives, because nobody in Scotland except local authorities are building houses for that type of man and he cannot live anywhere else? In those conditions, will he reconsider his decision so as to enable these men to fulfil the duties for which they are elected? I should like to put this question if the Minister will not reply to the other—will this also apply to Members of Parliament?

Mr. Elliot

It is governed by Statute. It is not a ruling of mine, but a decision of the House.

Mr. Kirkwood

Does it also apply to Members of Parliament living in municipal houses?

Mr. Elliot

I do not think there is any statutory ban in that case.