HC Deb 06 February 1951 vol 483 c1511
12. Viscount Hinchingbrooke

asked the Minister of Local Government and Planning whether he is aware of the difficulties placed in the way of mobility of labour through the inability of intending workers to exchange their existing local authority house for another in the area where labour is needed; and whether he is prepared to take steps to overcome the unwillingness of local authorities to sponsor the exchange of houses.

Mr. Dalton

I am wholly in favour of such voluntary exchanges, and am taking the matter up with the local authority associations.

Viscount Hinchingbrooke

In regard to the administrative arrangements, does the right hon. Gentleman intend to decide upon a suitable scheme, circularise local authorities and invite them to submit suggestions?

Mr. Dalton

I am in consultation with them, and I will take their advice and will consider the best method of popularising and encouraging these exchanges.

Mr. Hargreaves

Is the Minister aware that certain local authorities are encouraging interchanges of tenancies of council houses? Could he follow on that kind of development?

Mr. Dalton

Yes, Sir, certainly.