§ 13. Mr. Alportasked the Minister of Local Government and Planning how many applications have been received from local authorities by his Department to alter the existing ratio between houses built by the council and those built under private licence; and on how many occasions he has given his approval for this to be done.
§ Mr. DaltonSeventy-five, of which five have been approved.
§ Mr. AlportWould the right hon. Gentleman say on what principles he approves or otherwise of applications? Is he aware that the regional officers do not encourage, and in fact discourage, local authorities from submitting applications of this kind?
§ Mr. DaltonI am not sure, on the last part of the supplementary question, whether that is so. I have said several times since I have occupied my present office that I am quite willing, on case shown, to increase the ratio. There is no 2277 abstract principle in the matter. It is just a question of what representations local authorities make.
§ Sir Waldron SmithersIs the Minister aware that in the areas of the Orpington District Council and the Dartford Rural District Council builders tell me that they have men and materials to build several hundred houses in a year, but that they are not allowed to do so?
§ Mr. DaltonI do not think that can be true, but if the hon. Gentleman will give some hard evidence, I will look into the matter.
§ Sir W. SmithersWill the right hon. Gentleman grant the licences?
§ Mr. DaltonLet me see the evidence.