HC Deb 18 November 1952 vol 507 cc1575-6
32. Mr. Manuel

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will furnish details regarding the extent of the housing problem in Scotland.

Mr. J. Stuart

The Scottish Housing Advisory Committee estimated in 1943 that 500,000 additional houses were needed in Scotland. Since then, nearly 168,000 new houses have been built. A close estimate of the present position could be obtained only by means of a detailed survey, and I hesitate to put such a burden on local authorities at the present time.

Mr. Manuel

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that it is many year's since that survey was taken, and that there is now a great need for a proper survey to be made? Would he not agree that he should set in motion machinery that would allow us to gauge properly the real extent of our housing problem in Scotland in order that we may make long-term plans to solve it?

Mr. Stuart

In 1950, local authorities were approached about this particular matter, but they were unanimous in saying that they did not think the time was opportune. As we know, the fact is that there is a great deal of housing to be done. Still, I am glad to say that it is being accomplished more rapidly, and I think our energies would be best directed if used to this end.

Mr. Manuel

Will the Secretary of State make sure that houses are being built in the proper areas in order to meet the industrial needs of Scotland? Is he aware that a survey would enable houses to be built to meet the needs of the workers in the places where they are needed?

Mr. Stuart

All the houses that are being built are needed.