§ 20. Mr. Braineasked the Minister of Housing and Local Government whether he is aware that there are some Canvey Island families rendered homeless by the recent floods who are unable to return to their homes; and whether he will designate an authority who will assume responsibility for their rehousing.
§ Mr. H. MacmillanI understand that the number of families affected is probably not more than 15. I am sure the urban district council will help to secure the rehousing of families who are unable to make their own arrangements. They are in touch with my officers. I am also quite willing to approach Basildon Development Corporation; but I can only suggest in either case. I cannot order.
§ Mr. BraineAs this has been one of the most worrying problems in my constituency since the floods, may I thank 639 my right hon. Friend for the way in which he has responded to the appeal I made to him on the subject?
§ Mr. HastingsDoes the right hon. Gentleman realise that there is a family of eight from Canvey Island who have descended upon a three-roomed home in my constituency and cannot be removed?
§ Mr. MacmillanI do not quite know what the hon. Gentleman asks me to do. Does he wish me to evict them or to provide alternative accommodation? I must reiterate what I said to my hon. Friend, that while my officers and I can make suggestions and do all we can, we cannot—and I think ought not to be able to—give orders to local authorities.
§ Mr. BraineSurely my right hon. Friend is aware that within a few days of the emergency occurring two local authorities, one in Essex and one in Hertfordshire, of their own volition, offered accommodation to my afflicted constituents? Surely the Basildon Corporation, even though I know my right hon. Friend cannot direct them, will not hold back?
§ Mr. MacmillanNo, Sir, but there are problems. Houses coming off the line now are already allocated to families from London. It needs a little adjustment to get what we both want.