HC Deb 30 October 1947 vol 443 cc1057-8
6. Mr. Marples

asked the Minister of Health whether it is his intention that landlords who provide services such as central heating and hot water which require quantities of coal to premises which are rent controlled at 1939 prices, will be allowed to charge the recent statutory increased prices of coal to the tenants who enjoy the services provided by the consumption of the coal.

Mr. Bevan

This would require legislation to amend the Rent Restrictions Acts, of which there is no early prospect.

Mr. Marples

Does the right hon. Gentleman consider that it is fair and just that the landlord should be forced by the Minister of Fuel and Power to pay the increased price of coal whilst at the same time the tenant who consumes and enjoys the coal is not allowed to pay anything?

Mr. Bevan

The practice is that where time is to be provided for legislation the question should be addressed to the Prime Minister or to the Leader of the House of Commons.

Mr. Marples

Will the right hon. Gentleman take into account that the Ridley Committee made this point one of their highest priority recommendations?

Mr. Bevan

I thought the hon. Gentleman was addressing the Question to the Government and not to the Ridley Committee.

Mr. Marples

The right hon. Gentleman is wrong as usual.