§ 23. Mr. Leslieasked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he can make 560 any statement upon the threatened eviction of six sub-tenants of furnished lets in the city of Aberdeen because they had applied for relief against extortionate charges to the tribunal set up by Act of Parliament to consider these matters.
§ Mr. T. JohnstonIn this case the local authority took the view that the rents were excessive, and they, on behalf of the sub-tenants, submitted applications for the fixation of reasonable rent to the rents tribunal. Before the case was called the principal tenant intimated to the tribunal that he had given 40 days' notice to the proprietor of his intention to vacate the premises at the May term, and at the same time stated that he intended to sell the furniture. The subtenants were given only seven days' notice to vacate the premises and find other accommodation. The local authority have taken over the premises and on the circumstances of the case being brought to my notice and in order to avoid any possible hardship to the occupants, who include a number of young children, I authorised in terms of Defence Regulation 53 the local authority to requisition the furniture in the premises.
§ Mr. LeslieI thank my right hon. Friend for his prompt action and I hope it will have a salutary effect.