HC Deb 29 July 1943 vol 391 cc1779-80
65. Mr. McEntee

asked the Minister of Health whether, in view of the abnormal shortage of houses that will exist at the end of the war and the impossibility of building an adequate supply of suitable houses in a reasonable time, he has considered the desirability of pushing forward a programme of temporary dwellings to meet the needs of men and women returning to civil life from the war-time services and those needing new homes because of enemy action?

67. Sir Irving Albery

asked the Minister of Health whether any emergency plans have been made for dealing, on a temporary basis, with the acute shortage of housing which will result after the war?

Mr. E. Brown

As it is clear that the required number of new houses must take a considerable time to build, the possibilities of interim measures such as the erection of temporary dwellings, the adaptation of large houses for use by two or more families, and the exercise of billeting and requisitioning powers are being explored. I am bound to say, however, that experience has shown that there are weighty objections to each of these alternatives and I am sure that my hon. Friend will agree that the subject must be examined with great care before a decision is taken.