HC Deb 24 March 1953 vol 513 cc642-3
35. Mr. Janner

asked the Minister of Housing and Local Government how many rent tribunals have now been closed; what was the total number of applications dealt with by those tribunals; and in how many of these were the applicants for reduction in rent successful.

Mr. H. Macmillan

Thirteen; 11,847; and 4,167 respectively.

Mr. Janner

Is not the right hon. Gentleman aware that by closing these tribunals he is dealing a very serious blow to the tenants who want their cases heard? Can he tell us what he proposes to do in respect of those cases which cannot go to the tribunals now set up in place of those which have been closed down?

Mr. Macmillan

There is no evidence that amalgamation of tribunals, which is the correct phrase, has reduced the number of cases with which they deal or the number of people who want to bring their cases forward. The tribunals, like the judges, now go round instead of the people having to attend at one place.

Mr. Janner

Is the Minister aware that that will not do at all? Does he not know that the numbers of cases in places where the tribunals have been closed down are now reduced? Does he not realise that in consequence of such closing down people are not taking advantage of Acts of which they are entitled to take advantage?

Mr. Macmillan

That is not the experience that has been indicated to me.

Mr. Walker-Smith

Does my right hon. Friend appreciate that this evidence of administrative simplification and economy is generally welcomed?