§ 19. Lieut.-Commander Joynson-Hicksasked the Minister of Health whether, in view of the fact that temporary pre-fabricated steel houses are not intended for use in rural centres of population where there are no supplies of electricity or gas and piped water available, he will give the utmost priority for all building supplies necessary to meet the urgent need for homes in such areas as soon as such supplies become available.
§ Mr. WillinkI can assure my hon. and gallant Friend that the housing needs of rural areas are constantly in mind, arid will receive every consideration. I would, however, remind him that the services to 322 which he refers are already available in many rural villages, and piped water supplies will be further extended as a result of measures before this House.
§ Lieut.-Commander Joynson-HicksCan the right hon. and learned Gentleman indicate whether there is any special provision for these areas in his mind over and above the general policy of the Government in regard to urban areas?
§ Mr. WillinkI cannot give further details at the moment with regard to the Government's plan for rural housing, but I hope to do so at a comparatively early date.