HC Deb 21 July 1949 vol 467 cc1534-5
10. Mr. J. H. Hare

asked the Minister of Health whether his attention has been drawn to the action of the Blyth Borough Council in granting four building licences to the Blyth Co-operative Society out of the 24 allotted to that council for the benefit of owner-occupiers; and, in view of the fact that this arrangement does not conform with the ratio laid down by him, what steps he is prepared to take in this matter.

Mr. Bevan

I understand that, while action on the lines mentioned has been considered by the town council, licences have not in fact been issued. The attention of the council has been drawn to the terms of the circular giving local authorities discretion to issue licences, of which I am sending the hon. Member a copy.

Mr. Hare

Does the Minister agree that the circular he refers to—I think Circular 108—implies that these houses should be let to owner-occupiers, whereas if licences were granted to the Co-operative Society they would be let to tenants and would become tied cottages of the Co-operative Society?

Mr. Bevan

I do not think that they would become tied cottages. However, I will make further investigation.

15. Mr. Joynson-Hicks

asked the Minister of Health whether he has considered the resolution of the Bognor Regis Urban District Council, of which he has been sent a copy, requesting an increase in the number of private enterprise licence permits; and what action he proposes to take in regard thereto.

Mr. Bevan

The answer to the first part of the Question is "Yes, Sir." As regards the latter part, I would refer the hon. Member to the reply given to my hon. Friend the Member for Wycombe (Mr. Haire) on 23rd June.

Mr. Joynson-Hicks

Can the Minister tell me why he replied to that hon. Member with regard to a resolution in connection with my own constituency; and will he say what good it is leaving building materials and labour unemployed in these areas when people are wanting houses, but when they cannot build them because the Minister will not allow permits to be granted?

Mr. Bevan

I have no evidence that labour and materials are unemployed in these areas. If the hon. Gentleman will send me particulars I will have the matter investigated.

Mr. Joynson-Hicks

It is in the resolution.

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