§ 63. Mr. Kirbyasked the Minister of Health what progress has been made in Liverpool with the requisitioning of empty shops and other premises for the housing of bombed-out families since he issued his circular to local authorities authorising such requisitioning, repair and adaptation.
§ The Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Health (Miss Horsbrugh)At 31st May, 1944, the Liverpool Corporation held under requisition 1,731 premises for homeless persons and 121 premises for families inadequately housed. Of these, 19 were shop premises which have been converted to living accommodation.
§ Mr. KirbyDoes the hon. Lady think that is sufficient, in view of the fact that there are some 30,000 families in billets?
§ Miss HorsbrughI think that is a matter for the Liverpool Corporation. They have the power in suitable cases.
§ Mr. KirbyIs it possible for the Ministry of Health to bring pressure to bear on local authorities if they are not doing what they ought to do?
§ Miss HorsbrughYes, but I am not aware that the Liverpool Corporation is not doing what it ought to do. If the hon. Member has any partcular cases where he knows of buildings which could be requisitioned, perhaps he will let me have the addresses.
§ 64. Mr. Kirbyasked the Minister of Health how many houses in Liverpool damaged by enemy action have been repaired, made habitable and occupied during the past 12 months, or other period during which statistics have been kept.
§ Miss HorsbrughFor security reasons I am sending my hon. Friend this information by letter.