HC Deb 24 March 1938 vol 333 c1369
53. Mr. Kelly

asked the Minister of Health whether he is aware that the Yeovil Rural District Council are putting into force a scheme whereby the rents of some council houses will be substantially increased in order to let other houses at a lower rent where the tenants are of small means or have large families; whether this scheme has the approval of his Department; and whether, in view of the strong local opposition to the scheme, he will approach the local authority on the matter?

Sir K. Wood

I am aware that in accordance with their statutory duty under Section 85 of the Housing Act, 1936, the council have reviewed the rents charged for their houses and that, following such review, they have adopted a scheme for giving rebates from rent. This matter is within the discretion of the council and no question of my approval arises. The answer to the last part of the question is in the negative.

Mr. Kelly

In view of this matter being raised, will the right hon. Gentleman accept the report from the council and deal with it?

Sir K. Wood

I do not have to deal with any report from the council.