§ 31. Mr. Murrayasked the Minister of Fuel and Power how many hostels for ballotees for the mines there are in county Durham and how many are fully occupied; what use he intends to make of the Crook Hostel, which is now empty; and whether he will consider adapting it as a rehabilitation centre for disabled ex-Servicemen.
§ Mr. ShinwellThere are five miners' hostels now operating in county Durham. None is fully occupied. There were recently two other hostels which have since been handed back to the Ministry of Works. The Crook Hostel was reported on 30th March to my right hon. 2499 Friend, the Minister of Works, as available for disposal. I will convey my hon. Friend's suggestion to my right hon. Friend, the Minister of Labour.
§ Mr. MurrayIs the Minister aware that this is causing a considerable amount of discontent in the Crook district, and will he have this matter pressed forward?
§ Mr. ShinwellYes, that was my intention.