HC Deb 19 June 1951 vol 489 cc233-4
42. Mr. Ian Harvey

asked the Secretary of State for War what housing provision he makes for the wives of soldiers who are occupying married quarters if their husbands die or are killed on active service.

Mr. Strachey

The provision of housing for the widows of deceased soldiers is the responsibility of the local authorities. Such widows are, however, permitted to remain in married quarters for a reasonable period while they are endeavouring to secure civilian accommodation.

Mr. Harvey

Is the Minister aware that the fact that these people are in Army accommodation precludes them from getting on to local housing lists and that they have no claims whatever to go on those lists, with the result that the chances of their getting housing are, therefore, nil?

Mr. Strachey

No, that is not the position. It is true that it would be quite possible, but unreasonable, immediately to evict these widows, but that is never done. Long periods of notice are given, and no final eviction action is taken before the cases come personally to me.

Major Legge-Bourke

Without in any way interfering with the affairs of local authorities, will the Minister see whether the War Office could not inform the local authorities that certain married families are requiring civil accommodation, in order to try to encourage the local authorities provide it?

Mr. Strachey

We keep in close touch with the local authorities.

Mr. Bossom

If it is the responsibility of local authorities to provide this accommodation, are they permitted to build additional houses for that purpose, or are they limited to the number which has already been settled?