HC Deb 07 March 1939 vol 344 cc1924-6
89. Mr. Emery

asked the Minister of Health whether, for the protection of working-class purchasers of newly-built houses, he will consult with the local authorities with a view to tightening up local by-laws to ensure that newly-built houses should be of better quality so as to give reasonably long service without abnormal repairs?

The Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Health (Mr. Bernays)

Under the Public Health Act, 1936, building bylaws made prior to the passing of the Act will lapse in July next, and a model code for the guidance of local authorities in preparing new by-laws has been issued by my Department. So far, therefore, as the matter can be dealt with by building by-laws, the action suggested by my hon. Friend is already being taken.

Mr. Thorne

Will the model by-laws that may be issued in the future be different from the old ones?

Mr. Bernays

Yes, Sir, but it is not merely a question of new by-laws, but of enforcing existing by-laws.

Mr. Day

Has an agreement been reached with the local authorities with regard to the by-laws?

Mr. Bernays

Yes, Sir.

Mr. Macquisten

Will they allow builders to put in gas as well as electricity?

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