HC Deb 16 December 1948 vol 459 cc1369-70
31. Mr. Keeling

asked the Minister of Health why he has not consulted any organisation representing property-owners before preparing the Bill for the improvement of existing dwellings.

Mr. Bevan

It is always open to the organisations to make representations.

Mr. Keeling

Yes, but is it not the normal practice, and only fair, to approach and consult persons intimately affected by a Bill while it is being drafted.

Mr. Bevan

No, Sir. It is the normal practice for Ministers to make known in the ordinary way that a Bill is being prepared and for certain organisations, if they so wish, to make representations.

Mr. Keeling

When was that made known?

Mr. Bevan

It was made known in the Gracious Speech.

Mr. Keeling

But was not the Bill already drafted then?

Mr. Bevan

Of course not. The Bill is still in course of being drafted.