HC Deb 09 June 1943 vol 390 c681
10. Sir Robert Young

asked the Secretary of State for Air why the arrangement to build 283 houses in Sankey, Lancashire, was not completed, in spite of the Air Ministry's undertaking, as stated in its letters of 25th August and 14th September, 1939; whether he is aware that there are approximately 40 houses in various states of construction, some almost ready for habitation, which are greatly needed for Warrington's housing needs if the Air Ministry's demand is satisfied; and what the Ministry's financial commitments were and are in relation to these houses?

Sir A. Sinclair

The building project referred to was a pre-war private venture which was, I understand, suspended for lack of finance. No undertaking regarding the completion of the estate is contained in the letters referred to, nor has the Air Ministry entered into any financial commitments in this matter. I have no information as to the state of the property which is not required for occupation by employees of my Department.

Sir R. Young

Why did letters pass between contractors and the Department if the right hon. baronet had no interest in the matter?

Sir A. Sinclair

It was before my time, but I understand that the Department thought it might have some interest at the time. The letters contained no commitments on behalf of my Department.

Sir R. Young

Did they not state decisively that there was nothing to be done and that all priorities would be given to this firm to build the houses?

Sir A. Sinclair

I understand that that is not a fair summary of the contents of the letters.