HC Deb 01 July 1943 vol 390 cc1758-9
22. Sir Francis Fremantle

asked the Minister of Health whether he will provide against the use of basements for residential or office purposes in any new buildings?

Mr. E. Brown

In the Housing Act, 1936, and in the Public Health (London) Act, 1936, there are provisions stringently controlling the use of underground rooms for human habitation. As at present advised, I am not sure that complete prohibition of the use of underground rooms for residential or office purposes is necessary.

Sir F. Fremantle

That is so as regards existing buildings, but with regard to new buildings it is a very serious problem with the Corporation of London. Will the right hon. Gentleman bear that in mind?

Mf. Brown:

I should have thought myself that the law of 1936 would set the standard for new buildings.

Sir F. Fremantle

Will the right hon. Gentleman refer the matter to the Advisory Committee?

Mr. Brown

I could easily put it to the Central Housing Advisory Committee.

Sir Herbert Williams

Are the basements of the new Govt. offices in George Street which were occupied in the autumn of 1929 still so occupied?

Mr. Brown

The hon. Gentleman had better put that question on the Paper.

Sir H. Williams

Surely the right hon. Gentleman knows. They are under his own building.

Mr. Brown

Certainly.