HC Deb 07 December 1954 vol 535 cc781-2
62. Mr. McInnes

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he is aware that certain local authorities carrying out housing survey in terms of Sections 48 (1) and 56 (2) of the Housing Scotland Act, 1950. are insisting that occupiers and sub-tenants, in addition to providing information regarding the number, ages and sexes in the household, are also insisting that date of marriage be given and, since there is no statutory sanction for the asking of date of marriage, if he will circularise local authorities recommending them to cease this practice.

Mr. J. Stuart

I understand that one local authority has asked for information of the kind referred to. This seems to be an isolated case and I do not think that any action on my part is necessary.

Mr. McInnes

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that his answer merely reveals how far removed he is from local government activities in Scotland? Is he not aware that other local authorities demand the production of marriage certificates, and so on, when allocating houses? Would it not be better to issue a directive to local authorities on this matter?

Mr. Stuart

I was not aware that other local authorities did this. If the hon. Member cares to supply me with information, I will certainly consider his suggestion.