§ 20. Mr. Sorensenasked the Minister of Health, approximately how many empty houses in London and Greater London have been requisitioned for, and occupied by, families other than those directly affected by enemy action; and how many requisitioned houses are now occupied by such families.
§ Mr. Willink2,172 houses have been requisitioned in the London Civil Defence Region and occupied by families other than those made homeless by enemy action, and a further 203 houses have been requisitioned but are not yet occupied.
§ Mr. SorensenIs the right hon. and learned Gentleman aware that some local authorities complain that they have not sufficient powers to secure other empty houses for this purpose; and will he consider extending their powers in this, direction?
§ Mr. WillinkThe policy set out in the circulars gives a good deal of power, and the local authorities are getting ahead at varying rates, but I do not propose any change at the moment.
§ Mr. SorensenWill the right hon. and learned Gentleman consult with local authorities, because many of them have a real grievance and a desire to secure more houses but they cannot do so?