HC Deb 25 January 1940 vol 356 cc760-1
28. Sir Patrick Hannon

asked the Minister of Health the number of slum clearance orders he has confirmed since 3rd September, and the number of those which were, or, prior to the war could have been, the subject of a Ministerial inquiry; and whether he will state what were the exceptional circumstances under which he felt compelled to issue an order condemning 100 cottage houses at Huddersfield?

Mr. Elliot

At the outbreak of war there were some 1,300 slum clearance orders before my Department, and local inquiries had already been held in about half of them. In my circular to local authorities I explained why the holding of further inquiries must be postponed, and indicated that orders on which an inquiry had already been held would be proceeded with only where good reason existed. I also suggested to the local authorities that in the case of confirmed orders they should not take steps to require the demolition of the property during the period of the war. Since the war I have confirmed 103 orders and my hon. Friend will no doubt agree that, in the case he mentions, the fact that the necessary rehousing accommodation was ready amply justified my action in confirming the order.

Sir P. Hannon

Is my right hon. Friend aware that in confirming these orders during war time he is inflicting hardship on small property owners; and will he consider the desirability of suspending the confirmation of these orders until the end of the war?

Mr. Elliot

I have considered all these questions on their merits and sometimes great hardship and inconvenience are caused to the tenants as well as to the owners of cottages?

Sir P. Hannon

My Question relates to a particular case. Why should this order he confirmed at this period?

Mr. Elliot

One reason, and it seems to me to be of great importance, is that the necessary rehousing accommodation is in fact ready for these tenants.

Mr. H. Morrison

Would it not be taking an improper advantage of the war situation if unsatisfactory property is artificially preserved?

Mr. Levy

Is my right hon. Friend aware that this is practically confiscation of property, and that there is no possibility of alternative accommodation being provided?

Mr. Elliot

I was dealing with a case where alternative accommodation had been provided. As for the first part of the hon. Member's question, I am a servant of the law and I have to carry out the duties which Parliament lays upon me.