§ 37. Mr. David J. Prydeasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what number of houses for use by agricultural workers will be built by the county councils of Midlothian and Peebles in 1952.
§ The Joint Under-Secretary of State for Scotland (Mr. McNair Snadden)Midlothian and Peebles County Councils hope that some 24 and 12 houses, respectively, will be completed in their areas this year under the special agricultural workers' programme. In addition, Midlothian County Council expect to let four houses to agricultural workers from their general housing programme in 1952.
§ Mr. PrydeIn the interests of the rural population, will the hon. Gentleman encourage the local authorities to make greater progress?
§ Mr. SnaddenIn this area there should be no dissatisfaction with the progress which has been made. We consider it entirely in keeping with the national achievement.
§ 38. Mr. Prydeasked the Secretary of State for Scotland the number of houses for miners to be built in Midlothian this year.
Commander GalbraithThe Scottish Special Housing Association who are carrying out the special miners' programme in Midlothian, hope that some 250 houses in the landward area will be completed this year. The Association were also authorised this year to build 400 additional houses for miners under the special programme. In addition, the County Council expect to allot in 1952 to resident miners on their list some 50 houses from their general housing programme.
§ Mr. PrydeWill the hon. and gallant Gentleman recommend to those responsible that the houses should not all be built in one area and that the miners in Midlothian should not be prevented from applying to go on county council lists, as in Lanarkshire?