HC Deb 04 December 1951 vol 494 cc2213-4
16. Mr. Pryde

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland how many applications for houses are at present before local authorities in Midlothian and Peebles; and how many local authorities have closed their application lists.

Mr. J. Stuart

As the answer contains a number of figures, I shall, with permission, circulate a statement in the OFFICIAL REPORT. The only one of these local authorities whose list is closed is Dalkeith.

Mr. Pryde

Is there any logical reason for a burgh being given the opportunity to close its list?

Mr. Stuart

It is in the hands of the local authorities, but authorities have been advised that it is better to keep the lists open. There is no compulsion and no power in my possession to enforce that.

Mr. Pryde

Otherwise how is it possible to ascertain how many people want houses?

Mr. Stuart

I agree.

Following is the statement:

The information in the following table was obtained from the local authorities concerned on 30th November, 1951.

Local Authority Number of applicants on waiting list Whether waiting list open or closed
MIDLOTHIAN:
County Council 3,659 open
Edinburgh Burgh 18,227 open
Bonnyrigg Burgh 570 open
Dalkeith Burgh 356 closed, June 1948
Loanhead Burgh 295 open
Musselburgh Burgh 1,492 open
Penicuik Burgh 468 open
PEEBLES:
County Council 142 open
Innerleithen Burgh 180 open
Peebles Burgh 345 open