§ 33. Major Sir Jocelyn Lucasasked the Minister of Health whether he is aware of the clause in many leases for flats, that the floors must be carpeted; and whether he will take action in the matter in view of the fact that it is often impossible to buy carpets except at prohibitive prices?
§ Miss HorsbrughMy right hon. Friend has no evidence that in so far as such clauses may be included in leases, action is being taken to enforce them unreasonably at the present time. He does not think, therefore, there is any need for him to seek special powers.
§ Sir J. LucasIs the Minister aware that my information is absolutely to the contrary, and that while certain firms such as Plus Flats do meet the requirements of people, other firms absolutely insist on the letter of the agreement?
§ Miss HorsbrughIf my hon. and gallant Friend will give me particulars, we will be very glad to look into them.
§ Mr. Moelwyn HughesIs it the policy of the Ministry not to prevent an evil of this kind before it arises, when it is threatened, or is it to wait until it has 497 occurred and then try to do something to cure it?
§ Miss HorsbrughI think we have found in wartime that if we spend time looking for evils which may arise we shall not get on with the work. When these difficulties have arisen we have generally with goodwill been able to solve them.