§ 52. Major Anstruther-Grayasked the Secretary of State for Scotland how many houses in Scotland were estimated to have become unfit for human habitation during each of the last three years.
§ The Secretary of State for Scotland (Mr. James Stuart)This information could be obtained only by means of a house-to-house survey and I should not feel justified in asking local authorities to undertake so heavy a task at the present time. I am, however, fully aware of the problem and am considering what measures can be taken to deal with it.
§ Major Anstruther-GrayCan my right hon. Friend not give a general figure which would give a clear picture of the situation?
§ Mr. StuartI am afraid I cannot. In 1950, when local authorities were approached about this matter, they were unanimous in saying that they did not think the time was opportune. There is more important work to be dealt with in the building of houses.
§ Mr. RankinIs it not the case that in Scotland every local authority compiles these figures from year to year, so why should they not be available?
§ Mr. StuartI am not aware of that fact. In certain areas it may be so.