§ 40. Commander Maitlandasked the Minister of Local Government and Planning how many rural authorities in Great Britain have refused to consider applications for improvement grants made under the provisions of the Housing Act. 1949.
§ The Minister of Local Government and Planning (Mr. Dalton)I regret that this information is not available.
§ 41. Mr. Digbyasked the Minister of Local Government and Planning whether he has yet had an opportunity of considering the question of the facilities available for the improvement of existing houses in rural districts; and whether he is satisfied that the fullest use is being made of the facilities at present available under Part II of the Housing Act, 1949.
§ Mr. DaltonThe answer to the first part of the Question is "Yes"; to the second part "No."
§ Mr. DigbyWill the Minister again draw the attention of the local authorities to these conditions?
§ Mr. DaltonNo, Sir. The local authorities know the law very well. This is purely optional and I want to be economical in circulating local authorities. I am sure the hon. Gentleman will sympathise with that.
§ Mr. TurtonAre not certain circulars which the Minister's predecessor sent to local authorities a deterrent to the issue of improvement grants? Will he look through those circulars and see whether he can make it easier for the improvement grants to be obtained?
§ Mr. DaltonI have no reason to think that.
§ 44. Mr. Toucheasked the Minister of Local Government and Planning what is the number of applications which have been made for improvement grants under the Housing Act, 1949; and the number of acceptances and refusals at the latest convenient date.
§ Mr. DaltonA total of 1,626 applications have been received. Grant has been approved for 482 and refused for 617. The remaining 527 cases are either under consideration or have been withdrawn.