HC Deb 13 August 1947 vol 441 cc2417-8
31. Mr. Boyd-Carpenter

asked the Minister of Works for what purpose he proposes to use the buildings in Richmond Park, shortly to be vacated by 102 Convalescent Depot.

The Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Works (Mr. Durbin)

When the convalescent depot is vacated, which will probably be about the end of the year, it is proposed to use the buildings to house competitors in the 1948 Olympic Games.

Mr. Boyd-Carpenter

Is the Parliamentary Secretary aware of the fact that the Kingston Council applied to his Department for the use of these premises for housing the homeless, and is it really the decision of his Department that it is better to use this accommodation for the housing of international athletes, than for the housing of thousands of homeless people?

Mr. Durbin

It would not be possible, as the Amendment to the Housing (Temporary Accommodation) Act, 1945, was withdrawn, to use these buildings in a Royal Park for housing purposes?

Mr. Boyd-Carpenter

Is the hon. Gentleman aware of the fact that with the permission of his Department that would be possible?

Mr. Durbin

Since the decision was taken that the Olympic Games should be held in this country we are under the necessity of finding appropriate accommodation for the visiting athletes, such accommodation must be reasonably near to the scene of the meeting, and these are unquestionably the most logical premises to use for the purpose.