§ 72. Mr. T. Smithasked the Minister of Health whether he is aware that many local authorities have passed resolutions urging the Government to undertake a larger proportion of the expenditure on the demolition of unfit houses and the alleviation of overcrowding, contending that the re-housing of the working-classes is a matter of national concern, and that local rates should not be unduly burdened in consequence; and whether any action is contemplated in the near future?
§ Mr. BernaysThe rates of Exchequer subsidy for the purposes mentioned were fixed by Parliament only a year ago and my right hon. Friend has no reason to suppose that they are inadequate. The statute provides for a review of these rates after 1st October, 1941.
§ Mr. SmithIs not the Minister aware that many local authorities in industrial districts which have a low rateable value are finding their work harder in this direction, and would it not be a good thing to have legislation to move these old houses out of existence more quickly than is the case to-day?
§ Mr. BernaysAs regards the subsidy, the hon. Gentleman will bear in mind the fact that the overcrowding subsidy now payable balances any reduction that there has been in the slum clearance subsidy.