§ 33. Mr. Mathersasked the Minister of Health whether he is now in a position to make a statement of Government policy with regard to control of the prices of houses becoming available for sale.
§ The Minister of Health (Mr. Willink)No, Sir.
§ Mr. MathersDoes the right hon. and learned Gentleman consider that that is an adequate answer to a question about a matter of such importance as this; and, if it is possible to deal with, and to limit, prices in respect of second-hand furniture and to deal with the rents of furnished apartments in Scotland, what reason—I will put it quite bluntly to the Minister— prevents him from dealing with this point?
§ Mr. WillinkI think that my answer was a clear and adequate answer to the question whether I was in a position to make a statement. The matter is one of very great difficulty, it is under close consideration and one must see that any scheme is fair both to sellers and buyers and is also one which is workable.
§ Mr. ShinwellIs the Minister aware of the extortionate charges imposed on would-be buyers of house property? Surely he cannot allow these inflated charges to continue. Is this not in the public interest, and cannot he expedite a decision?
§ Mr. WillinkI have said that the matter is under close consideration. I have a large amount of evidence and it is being considered now.
§ Mr. MathersCan the right hon. and learned Gentleman say when he may be in a position to make a further statement?
§ Mr. WillinkI cannot properly answer that question to-day. The matter is being considered by myself and other Departments.
§ Mr. LipsonCan the Minister tell the House whether it is his intention to make a statement on the matter at the earliest possible moment?
§ Mr. WillinkAs soon as I am in a position to do so, I shall be happy to make a statement.