§ 39. Mrs. Hardieasked the Minister of Health whether he will take steps to stop extortionate rents being charged in and around cities, as these high rents make it impossible for soldiers' wives and others with limited means to live on their incomes?
§ Mr. ElliotThe rents of all houses withing certain limits of rateable value, including sub-let parts of houses, were controlled by the Rent and Mortgage Interest Restrictions Act, 1939, which became law last September. I do not think that further measures are necessary.
§ Mrs. HardieIs the Minister aware that a great many houses are not covered by the Act? Is it not time that a more comprehensive Act was passed to deal with the matter, as under the present system these people have no defence against landlords, and the procedure means that the Government are subsidising high rents?
§ Mr. ElliotThe matter is controlled by Acts of Parliament to a limited extent, and special assistance is available to the dependants of a man serving with the Forces where they are otherwise unable to meet their financial obligations.
§ Mrs. HardieThe reply of the right hon. Gentleman does not meet the point. The Government are subsidising high rents. The point is that Government money is going to landlords in rents which are too high. Will he look into the matter in view of the considerable feeling and anxiety which exist?
§ Mr. ElliotIn getting out of one difficulty, you may get into another and a greater difficulty, but I am, of course, prepared to look into the matter.