§ 41. Mr. Higgsasked the Minister of Health if he is aware that the Birmingham Estates Committee considers it should have the right to nominate tenants to houses suitable for the working classes which have been bombed and made habitable by the committee; and, as he has already ruled that the owners of such houses have a right to let, will he ensure that it is possible for the landlord to regain control of his property as soon as it is available.
§ Mr. WillinkI have made inquiries of the Birmingham Corporation, and I am informed that the Estates Committee make no claim to nominate tenants to war- 925 damaged houses which have been repaired by them, except in respect of Corporation houses, or houses which have been duly requisitioned by the Corporation. I understand, however, that the Corporation are considering making representations to me for the grant of increased powers. In the event of any such representations being received, I should of course give full consideration to the views expressed by my hon. Friend.
§ Mr. HiggsIs the Minister aware that property owners have paid the war damage contribution, and that it has not been paid by the Corporation; and does he not consider that property-owners should retain control of their own property?
§ Mr. WillinkWhen the question arises, I shall take such matters into account and consider both sides, but, of course, special measures in the present special circumstances do need to be taken in regard to housing problems.
§ Sir William DavisonIs the Minister aware that often in London the only way a property-owner can get his bombed houses repaired is through the local authority, and that they ask for the privilege of nominating the tenants, when they do the repairs?