§ 41 and 42. Mr. E. Smithasked the Minister of Health (1) whether he is aware of the increasing practice of fixing ground-rent charges on the purchase of houses; and will he consider taking steps to deal with this problem;
(2) whether he is aware of the effect on house purchasers of ground rents, road charges, and the relatively high interest charges; and whether he will consider taking early legislative action to deal with this matter?
§ Mr. ElliotThe general question of the terms upon which house property is bought and sold is not a matter within the scope of my Department, but if the hon. Member wishes to bring to my notice any particular case arising under the Housing Acts I shall be glad to examine the matter.
§ Mr. SmithThe Ministry of Health are bound to be aware of the trend of events in connection with the issues raised in these questions. In view of the relatively high rate of interest charged by the companies, will the Minister consider action with a view to seeing that the burden on people who have purchased their houses is reduced?
§ Mr. ElliotIt is not actually within the scope of my Department, but if any case is brought to my notice I will examine it and do my best to advise the hon. Member.
§ Mr. BateyIs this not one of the questions which ought to be brought within the scope of the right hon. Gentleman's Department?
§ 44. Mr. J. Griffithsasked the Minister of Health what steps have been taken to deal with the housing conditions in Carmarthenshire consequent upon the investigation made by his officers in the county last year?
§ Mr. ElliotMost of the local authorities in the county are now taking active steps to remedy the unsatisfactory housing conditions reported upon by my inspectors, and I can assure the hon. Member that I am keeping in close touch with the local authorities in this matter.
§ Mr. GallacherWill the Minister promise to do better in Carmarthenshire than he did in Scotland?
§ Mr. J. GriffithsI hope he will.