HC Deb 22 November 1948 vol 458 c869
67. Mr. Baldwin

asked the Minister of Health whether in view of the shortage of houses for agricultural workers, he is prepared to waive the present restrictions on the granting of licences to persons wishing to build houses for agricultural workers and who are prepared to make no claim for subsidy.

Mr. John Edwards

No, Sir. I would refer the hon. Member to the reply given to the hon. Member for Newbury (Mr. Hurd) on 11th November, of which I am sending him a copy.

Mr. Baldwin

Will the Minister say what reason there is for refusing a licence for the building of a house for a farm worker when there is such a shortage of rural houses and when the builder of the cottage wants no subsidy from the country and no subsidy from the ratepayers?

Mr. Edwards

There is no advantage in adding to the number of houses on paper unless the men and the materials can be made available.

Mr. Baldwin

They are there.

Mr. Edwards

I am satisfied that this is much the best way in the interests of the agricultural community.