§ 11. Captain W. T. Shawasked the Secretary of State for Air whether he is aware that through the requisition of land by his Ministry, at a certain place of which he has been informed, some working-class families have been caused great inconvenience; that one family at least, who have been warned out of their cottage, have found it impossible to find alternative accommodation; what steps he is taking to find accommodation for this family; and, if he is not responsible, who is responsible for finding alternative accommodation?
§ Sir A. SinclairI regret any inconvenience that may be caused to the families concerned in this case. The responsibility for providing them with accommodation is one which the Government accept, and I am in touch with my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Scotland as to how this responsibility can best be discharged. If suitable accommodation cannot be found, I am prepared if need be to authorise the construction of new accommodation, but in view of the desirability of avoiding unnecessary demands on labour and materials, I am unwilling to do this unless and until it is evident that there is no practicable alternative.
§ Captain ShawDoes the right hon. Gentleman realise the urgency of the matter, and will he take steps to provide accommodation at the earliest possible moment, as the matter has been outstanding for months?
§ Sir A. SinclairI certainly agree that alternative accommodation should be found for these people.