HC Deb 10 November 1953 vol 520 cc770-1
38. Mrs. Mann

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland to what extent owners of houses awaiting demolition orders are selling such houses; and what steps he is taking to stop this practice.

Mr. J. Stuart

I am not aware that there is any widespread practice of this kind, but I shall be glad to consider any information which the hon. Lady may submit to me.

Mrs. Mann

Would not the right hon. Gentleman obtain this information from the local authorities? They know that there are houses which are unfit for human habitation—

Mrs. Cullen

The right hon. Gentleman has the information.

Mrs. Mann

—and those houses are being sold for a very high profit. Does the right hon. Gentleman think it is time that that was stopped?

Mr. Stuart

The easiest way of solving this matter is to ensure that there are sufficient houses when, obviously, it will not be possible to sell the houses for high profits. We are building the houses.