HC Deb 07 March 1939 vol 344 cc1912-3
61. Mr. T. Johnston

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether the Special Areas Housing Association is experiencing any difficulty in acquiring sites for cellular concrete or any other type of house-building; and, in view of the fact that contracts for £1,000,000 of housing work are issued but the contractors cannot proceed, for lack of authority to utilise the necessary sites, what steps he proposes to take in the matter?

The Secretary of State for Scotland (Mr. Colville)

I am aware that the association have met with difficulties in acquiring certain sites. I am informed, however, that of the six sites selected for the £1,000,000 contract to which the right hon. Member refers five sites are now available to the association.

Mr. Johnston

If the association find difficulty in getting proper sites in proper places, will the right hon. Gentleman secure power for them to get the land compulsorily?

Mr. Colville

I shall bear in mind the difficulties that they experience. I have been in touch with the associations of local authorities, and at their suggestion I have arranged that future cases of difficulty should be taken up by the Housing Association with the appropriate association of local authorities.

Mr. Kirkwood

The right hon. Gentleman said that five sites have been selected. Will he tell us the names of those sites?

Mr. Colville

I should require notice of that question.