HC Deb 16 March 1944 vol 398 c378
16. Mr. Driberg

asked the Minister of Health the total number of houses reserved by local authorities for those rendered homeless by enemy action; if the need for keeping them empty is reviewed from time to time and balanced against the general shortage of accommodation in districts relatively immune from bombing; and if he will consider allowing each of the larger of such houses to be occupied rent-free by a Service man's wife or other dependant who is willing to act as caretaker.

The Minister of Health (Mr. Willink)

The number of houses at present reserved unoccupied for this purpose is approximately 4,000. The answer to the second part of the Question is, "Yes, Sir." Some of the larger vacant houses are already occupied by caretakers chosen from the families of Service men, and their claims will, of course, be borne in mind in any case where it is found necessary to instal a caretaker.

Mr. Driberg

Is the right hon. and learned Gentleman aware that some local authorities are not aware of the fact contained in the last part of his answer? Will he have it generally made known to them?

Mr. Willink

I expect that the usual publicity will arise from this answer.