HC Deb 28 November 1946 vol 430 cc1762-3
29. Mr. Sparks

asked the Minister of Health in how many cases local authorities have submitted references to the furnished houses rent control tribunals; and in what circumstances such references should be made.

Mr. Bevan

Up to the end of October one reference only had been made to a tribunal by a local authority. It is for the local authority to determine in the light of the circumstances of individual cases when they should exercise their power to submit references to tribunals.

Mr. Sparks

Is the Minister aware that many tenants refrain from making references to the rent tribunals owing to their fear of subsequent eviction? Would my right hon. Friend say that these would be appropriate cases in which the local authority might act on their own initiative?

Mr. Bevan

I do not want to inspire the local authorities to make references to the tribunals at the moment because the number of ordinary references which are being made are quite enough to occupy the tribunals.

Mr. Janner

May I ask the Minister whether he will not reconsider his view in that regard? Does not the fact that many successful applications that are now being made to rent tribunals indicate that local authorities should take a hand in the matter?

Mr. Bevan

Not necessarily. It would merely mean further delay.