§ 17. Mr. Lewisasked the Minister of Housing and Local Government if he is aware of the difficulties confronting war-damaged towns and cities in rebuilding their war-damaged areas, while at the same time trying to clear their slum 1787 areas; and whether he will make a statement of his intentions to assist local authorities confronted with this problem.
§ Mr. H. MacmillanI am aware of the difficulties, and am anxious to give any help that I can. I do not know, however, what special point the hon. Member has in mind. If he would let me know, I will certainly consider his suggestions.
§ Mr. LewisWhile thanking the Minister for that very sympathetic reply, may I ask him to consult with at least one local authority—the county borough of West Ham—and perhaps others, where, because of the financial losses resulting from the war, there are serious financial difficulties in building new houses, because these authorities cannot afford to get on with the job of slum clearance and at the same time build new houses? If the Minister will consult with some of these authorities, I myself, and I have no doubt other hon. Members, will be very glad to help.
§ Mr. MacmillanI should be very ready to do so, and if the hon. Gentleman will bring them to see me, I shall be very happy to see them.