§ 30. Mr. Stephenasked the Secretary of State for Scotland when the Saltcoats town council decided to adopt a policy of rebates in connection with the rents in their housing schemes; whether this decision was consequent upon any intimation from his department that such a scheme was necessary; and whether the said town council is considering any proposals for reducing the rents of the municipal houses within the borough?
§ Mr. ElliotFollowing the issue to all local authorities of the Housing (Rent Rebates) Regulations and of an explanatory memorandum, the town council decided in July, 1937, to adopt a scheme of rent rebates which came into operation on the 1st September last. With regard to the last part of the question I am not aware that the town council have any proposals under consideration for the reduction of rents generally. My information is that they have recently fixed standard rents from which of course rebates are given in appropriate cases in accordance with their scheme.
§ Mr. StephenIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that there is widespread discontent at the dictatorial attitude of the Lord Provost; and is there any objection to the council reducing the rents?
§ Lieut.-Colonel Sir Thomas MooreMay I ask my right hon. Friend to bear in mind that the hon. Member who puts this question was the spiritual representative but never the political representative of Saltcoats; and, if he wants any information on this subject, will he please apply to the Member for Ayr Burghs.
§ Mr. StephenCan I have an answer to my question?
§ Mr. ElliotThe Supplementary Question is divided into two parts. The first asks for my opinion about the Lord Provost on which, obviously, it would be wrong for me to make any statement at all. The second raises the question of the general reduction of rents on which I would require notice.
§ Mr. ThorneWhen these rebates are made is it taken into consideration in connection with transitional benefit?