§ 39. Mr. David Rentonasked the Minister of Health whether he is aware that soldiers, sailors and airmen of the Regular Forces who have been serving their country for many years, namely 21 years, in different parts of the world, are finding that local authorities will not take them on their waiting lists for houses, as they have not lived in the district during the past 10 years; and whether he will take steps to inform local authorities as to their duty towards these men.
§ Mr. BevanHousing authorities have already been asked in Circular 109/45, of which I am sending the hon. Member a copy, to give ex-Servicemen every consideration in accordance with their relative needs, and in appropriate cases to waive any residential qualification they may have laid down. I have no reason to suppose that local authorities generally are failing to give effect to this circular. If the hon. Member has any particular cases in mind I should be glad to look into them.
§ Mr. KeelingWould the right hon. Gentleman say what he would consider an appropriate case for a local authority to give a house to an ex-Serviceman who has had no connection with their district during the past 10 years?
§ Mr. BevanYes, there are a number of examples. For instance, where an ex-Serviceman has found employment in the area, and is unable to carry on the employment unless he has residence there.