HC Deb 15 June 1954 vol 528 cc1716-7
16. Mr. Rankin

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what steps he is taking to ensure that his scheme for reducing the initial deposits required from those who purchase houses in Scotland will not adversely affect the housing plans and programmes of local authorities.

Mr. J. Stuart

None, Sir. While local authorities must continue to build houses to let to the extent necessary in their districts, it is highly desirable in the Government's view to encourage private ownership, whether by the erection of new houses or the acquisition of existing ones.

Mr. Rankin

That is all very well, but the weekly cost of this particular scheme—

Mr. Speaker

Is the hon. Member asking a question?

Mr. Rankin

Is the Secretary of State not aware that the weekly cost of this scheme will place it beyond the scope of the great mass of workers in Scotland, and that their organisations are troubled about it? What steps is he taking to ensure that the ordinary building of houses to let will not be affected by this particular scheme?

Mr. Stuart

If the hon. Member is correct in his assumption that this scheme will not help the poorer sections of the community he will have nothing to worry about, because the ordinary building of houses to let will continue.