§ 41. Mr. Molsonasked the Secretary of State for War when he will enforce the interim injunction against the squatters occupying the Empire Hotel, Buxton; and whether he is aware that conditions in the hotel endanger the health of the residents of Buxton as well as that of the squatters themselves.
§ Mr. ShinwellThe enforcement of the interim injunction would not solve the problem in this case, as it is not effective against all the squatters at present in occupation. Final judgment was signed on 15th April, 1948, and I am advised that steps are now being taken which, it is hoped, will result in the early removal of all the squatters from this hotel. I am aware that the sanitary conditions in the hotel are very bad, but such action as was possible in the circumstances has been taken to assist the local authority.
§ Mr. MolsonDoes the right hon. Gentleman realise that this matter has been dragging on ever since 21st August last? Will he try to ensure that property requisitioned by the War Office does not become a menace to public health?
§ Mr. ShinwellThis has been a very difficult problem, because I understand that as soon as an injunction was taken against some squatters, they disappeared, but other squatters took their places.