HC Deb 09 July 1941 vol 373 cc150-1
18. Dr. Edith Summerskill

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Works and Buildings whether, when negotiating with Plus Flats, Limited, the landlords of North End House, and arranging with them for alternative accommodation for dispossessed tenants, he required any assurance that the terms for tenants getting such accommodation should not be made harsher than the terms obtaining before the requisitioning began?

The Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Works and Buildings (Mr. Hicks)

In order to assist the tenants of North End House who are being dispossessed, discussions have taken place with the landlords, and it is understood that they are prepared to offer such tenants flats in North End House at a reduction.

Dr. Summerskill

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that in at least two cases of these dispossessed tenants, the landlords have asked for an increase of £20 a year in rent, in spite of the assurances of the hon. Gentleman? Why have his Department not guarded against this exploitation?

Mr. Hicks

It is not the job of my Department to negotiate these matters; but, as I said, discussions have taken place with a view to assisting. I am credibly informed that the landlords offered a reduction of 20 per cent. on pre-war rents.