HC Deb 21 February 1946 vol 419 cc1281-3
24. Mr. Lipson

asked the Minister of Health if, in view of the fact that building societies are precluded by law from engaging in building operations, he proposes to consult with representatives of the building societies as to how their ex- housing purposes outside their own boundaries; and if he will give the location of any sites acquired, the acreage, and the number of dwellings to be erected.

Mr. Bevan

I regret that the Department's records do not provide this information. My officers recall, however, three cases in which Middlesex local authorities have purchased land for current housing purposes outside their own boundaries, and I will, with permission, circulate these details in the Official Report.

Mr. Sparks

Is my right hon. Friend aware that quite a number of authorities in Middlesex will have to go outside their boundaries to develop their housing schemes and, in view of the fact that between them they have more than sufficient on their housing registers to form the nucleus of a satellite town, would the right hon. Gentleman agree that instead of these authorities going their independent ways in developing housing schemes over a wide area, it would be better to coordinate their activities within a joint housing authority, acting on behalf of all the authorities concerned? Would he agree to such a course being adopted?

Mr. Bevan

My hon Friend is probably quite right, and in that case it is a matter for the Minister of Town and Country Planning.

Following are the details:

perience and financial resources may be used in other ways to advance the Government's housing programme.

Mr. Bevan

I should be pleased to consider any suggestions which the representatives of the building societies may be able to make to me with a view to making their resources available to facilitate the building of houses for letting, always bearing in mind that the limiting factor today is not finance but labour and materials.

Mr. Lipson

Is the light hon. Gentleman aware that he has not really answered my specific Question which is: Is he willing to meet representatives of the building societies? In view of the misunderstandings between building societies and himself will he not agree to meet their representatives?

Mr. Bevan

I hope there is no misunderstanding between myself and the building societies. I hope I have made my position clear. However, if it is necessary to meet them to clear up any misunderstanding I am certainly ready to do so.

Mr. Lipson

Thank you.