HC Deb 16 February 1943 vol 386 cc1588-9
46. Sir Robert Young

asked the Prime Minister whether he is aware that the several Departments concerned have powers under Defence Regulation 51 to requisition houses for persons rendered homeless due to enemy action and for workers in war industry, but not for re-housing other people whose dwellings have been requisitioned for war purposes; and whether, as this arrangement creates difficulties and hardships for the evicted persons, he will give directions that the Regulation be amended to include such powers?

The Deputy Prime Minister (Mr. Attlee)

Yes, Sir. I am aware of the powers to which my hon. Friend refers, but I cannot accept his suggestion, which would give rise to great practical difficulties. My right hon. Friend the Prime Minister has already drawn the attention of requisitioning Departments to the need for care and consideration and for avoiding unnecessary hardships in the exercise of their powers.

Sir R. Young

Is my right hon. Friend aware that these people are being evicted from their homes, apart from their land and buildings, and that the rural authority has no power and is not in a position to provide any accommodation for them, and that therefore they are turned into the street; and should not something be done to give the authorities power to provide homes for people rendered homeless in this way?

Mr. Attlee

If my hon. Friend has particular cases, perhaps he will bring them to my attention.

Mr. McEntee

Is it not a fact that many local authorities actually give instructions to all agents in their particular area to report immediately a house becomes vacant and that they can requisition them without any consideration for anybody else?