HC Deb 08 July 1952 vol 503 c1089
38. Mr. Manuel

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will take steps to allocate more houses to local authorities where they can show that they have additional requirements because of the large number of miners rows in their area in a dilapidated condition and unfit for human occupation.

Mr. J. Stuart

I am prepared to authorise additional instalments of houses in any district where I am satisfied that progress with the authorisations already made justifies such a course.

Mr. Manuel

Does that reply mean that additional allocations will be given, because of the over-weight of unfit houses, where the local authorities are building up to the requirements laid down in the allocations this year? Does he understand that in many areas in Scotland there are these old rows, although no coal is being extracted in many of these areas today, and it is in respect of these areas that my Question is directed?

Mr. Stuart

I understand the point and assure the hon. Member that where the authorities are getting on well with their allocations, we will always consider this.