§ 58. Sir G. Manderasked the Minister of Health what steps he is taking to secure that a high proportion of all houses built shall be made available for Servicemen returning home; and if he has taken any census as to how far local authorities are doing this.
§ Mr. WillinkI have been discussing with the Service Departments and representatives of local authorities the steps to be taken to meet in the most effective manner the housing requirements of men released from the Services; and I hope to be able to make an announcement shortly.
§ Sir G. ManderDoes that mean that my right hon. and learned Friend is also discussing the matter with the local authorities, to see what steps they are taking? Is he aware that Wolver Hampton, for example, is reserving 75 per cent. of the houses for Servicemen?
§ Mr. WillinkI am not aware of that particular fact, but discussions with the local authorities have been found an effective means of dealing with such matters.
Major LloydIs my right hon. and learned Friend aware that quite a number of Servicemen coming back cannot get into their own homes because of the Rent Restrictions Acts?
§ Mr. WillinkYes, Sir, we are considering this problem at the moment.
§ Mr. SilvermanDoes the right hon. and learned Gentleman endorse the view that people cannot get into their own homes, when they need those homes, because of the Rent Restrictions Acts?
§ Mr. WillinkThat was the view expressed by the majority of the Ridley Committee.