HC Deb 02 December 1943 vol 395 c494
21. Mr. Driberg

asked the Minister of Health why his Department is advising local authorities against the acquisition of housing sites beyond those required for building in the first year after the war?

Miss Horsbrugh

The advice is given in accordance with an arrangement made early this year by my right hon. Friend's predecessor with the then Chancellor of the Exchequer and my right hon. Friend the Minister of Town and Country Planning which removed the embargo against the purchase of land by local authorities so far as a first year's housing programme is concerned. My hon. Friend will be glad to know that my right hon. Friend is looking into the practicability of some further relaxation.

Mr. Molson

Does not this answer indicate the desirability of the Government coming to some conclusion about general policy on land acquisition?

Miss Horsbrugh

I pointed out to my hon. friend that the sites that are already in the possession of local authorities will provide for housing to a great extent beyond what is possible at the moment.

Mr. Lipson

Is the Minister keeping his eye on speculators to see that they do not get away with it?

Miss Horsbrugh

I am sure that my right hon. and learned Friend will have the assistance and the information required from my hon. friend.

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