§ 22. Mr. David Adamsasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he is aware that the Municipal Council of Haifa, Palestine, reports that at least 10,000 persons are living under unhealthy and insanitary conditions owing to shortage of housing accommodation; and whether, in the absence of private house building, he will recommend the Government at the first convenient opportunity to take remedial action?
§ Colonel StanleyI am aware of the shortage of suitable housing accommodation in Haifa, and I am satisfied that the Government of Palestine are fully alive to their responsibilities in the matter. Although substantial progress cannot be made under war conditions, detailed schemes will be prepared in readiness for the time when progress can be made.
§ Mr. AdamsThe Minister will be aware that it has been reported that there is a considerable amount of sickness, with other evils, due to the congested state of the population?
§ Colonel StanleyI should be only too glad, and we will do everything we can, to remedy the position, but the shortage of labour, and above all the shortage of materials, make that impossible in wartime.