HC Deb 08 May 1951 vol 487 cc1730-1
3. Sir Waldron Smithers

asked the Minister of Local Government and Planning if he is aware that the cost of repairs and maintenance of properties has increased by about 300 per cent. of their pre-war level, and that properties throughout the country are falling into a state of disrepair; and if he will introduce legislation to authorise an increase in controlled rents to enable landlords to meet their outgoings.

Mr. Dalton

In reply to the first part of the Question, my predecessor and I have received various representations on this subject. In reply to the second part, I would refer the hon. Member to my reply to the hon. Member for Henley (Mr. Hay), on Tuesday last.

Sir W. Smithers

Is the right hon. Gentleman not aware that this class administration is doing irreparable harm to the homes and happiness of all those concerned?

Mr. John Hay

Will the right hon. Gentleman bear in mind that although the suggestion made in this Question may not necessarily be the entire answer, the problem nevertheless exists? Can he give the House an assurance that he realises that there is a problem here, and that he has not closed his mind entirely to the possibility of ameliorating the position?

Mr. Dalton

It is very difficult to see how we can solve this under present conditions without creating even more serious problems in other directions.

Mr. George Thomas

Is my right hon. Friend aware that if he concedes this increase in rent for the 8 million families who will be concerned he will add considerably to the burden of the cost of living at the present time?

Mr. Dalton

That has been brought out in the answer which I gave the hon. Member for Henley, last Tuesday.

Mr. Marples

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that houses are becoming uninhabitable because of the lack of repairs? What action does the right hon. Gentleman propose to take in order to avoid this decay?

Hon. Members

Answer.