HC Deb 18 November 1952 vol 507 c1576
33. Mr. Manuel

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland to indicate the number of rent tribunals operating in Scotland; and the number of cases they have dealt with up to the last convenient date.

Mr. J. Stuart

There are 29 rent tribunals in Scotland. The total number of cases referred to them up to 30th September, 1952, was 4,701.

Mr. Manuel

Is the Secretary of State aware that these rent tribunals have been doing excellent work in Scotland, and that they have put an end to a great deal of exploitation in many areas in the cases of people who were living in sub-let accommodation? Will he give a firm pledge to the House that he will continue these rent tribunals, and also see to it that greater publicity is given to them in certain areas in Scotland where they are not given enough work to do but which, I think, they would have if these rent tribunals were more widely known?

Mr. Stuart

All local authority areas are served by these tribunals at present, and I have not expressed any intention of discontinuing their appointment.