§ 51. Mr. Dayasked the Minister of Health the estimated number of slum dwellings in Great Britain that should be disinhabited if alternative accommodation were available; the number of families and/or persons inhabiting such dwellings; and particulars as to any accelerated progress that has been made in slum clearance in Great Britain during the 12 months ended to the last convenient date?
§ Mr. ElliotIn England and Wales some 200,000 of such houses have already been demolished, closed or made fit, and a further 250,000, occupied by about 1,000,000 persons, still fall to be dealt with. Action has been initiated in respect of about 170,000 of these. In the 12 months ended 30th April last over 70,000 replacement houses were approved, as compared with about 59,000 approved in the preceding 12 months. In regard to Scotland, the hon. Member will no doubt address a question to my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State.
§ Mr. DayHow does the Minister reconcile this slow progress with the pledges and promises of the Government at the last two Elections?
§ Mr. FlemingIs the Minister aware that in some areas houses are being cleared before alternative accommodation is provided?