HC Deb 24 March 1949 vol 463 cc545-6
44. Sir David Robertson

asked the Minister of Health why the large requisitioned flat at 29 Mount Nod Road, Streatham, was allowed to remain unoccupied for over four months while his Department and Wandsworth Borough Council were negotiating decoration repairs amounting to £64.

Mr. Bevan

The time was taken up in preparing a specification and securing competitive tenders.

Sir D. Robertson

Having regard to the fact that there are 9,000 families awaiting homes in this borough, many of whom are living in appalling condi- tions, what justification can there be for this delay in making this large flat available to these people.

Mr. Bevan

I think that there was unusual delay in this matter, but it was desirable to see that proper tenders were received for the protection of public funds.

Sir D. Robertson

In view of the importance of this question, and because I believe that this is typical of the so-called housing drive, I beg to give notice that I shall raise the matter on the Adjournment.