§ 42. Mr. Maxtonasked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he is aware that several families are being evicted from the tenement at 199, Millroad Street, in the Bridgeton Division of Glasgow; that no satisfactory alternative accommodation has been offered; and whether he will take steps to enable Glasgow Corporation to provide safe and hygienic housing for citizens rendered homeless?
§ The Secretary of State for Scotland (Mr. T. Johnston)I am informed that, as a result of the tenement at 199, Mill-road Street being declared dangerous by the Dean of Guild Court, several families will require to vacate their houses. I understand, however, that the Corporation have offered these families suitable accommodation in a property belonging to the Corporation and which has recently been reconditioned.
§ Mr. MaxtonIs my right hon. Friend taking any steps to see that the alternative accommodation is an improvement on the houses from which these people have been evicted? Is he aware that his own Department prevents the Glasgow Corporation from making the necessary improvements that would make the homes habitable?
§ Mr. JohnstonI am informed that the premises now offered are a great improvement structurally upon the houses in which these poor families were living and that the standard of habitability—I think that is the right word—which has been effected in the new premises is the same as for all premises reconditioned by the Corporation.
§ Mr. MaxtonIs it not the case that the Corporation would make the houses decent if the right hon. Gentleman's Department of Health would allow them to do so?