HC Deb 19 July 1938 vol 338 c1992
60. Mr. Duncan

asked the Minister of Health whether he is aware that a survey to ascertain the extent of overcrowding in the borough of Finsbury is being carried out at the present time; and whether it is part of the duties of the officials carrying out this survey to inquire the present rent paid by tenants for their accommodation in the house being inspected?

The Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Health (Mr. Bernays)

I understand that in the course of the survey of overcrowding now being carried out by the Metropolitan Borough Council, under Part IV of the Housing Act, 1936, tenants are being asked if they are willing to disclose the amount of rent being paid. I understand that this information is being collected to facilitate consideration of the question of erecting further new flats at rents so far as practicable comparable with those now being paid by local residents. Any answer to such question is, of course, entirely optional.

Mr. Macquisten

Will the hon. Gentleman see that lifts are put in these flats?

Mr. Duncan

Do the tenants know that they are entitled not to answer the question?

Mr. Bernays

If they do not, they will know from the answer I have given to-day.

Mr. George Griffiths

Are the landlords ashamed of the rents the tenants are paying?