HC Deb 30 October 1956 vol 558 cc1231-2
21. Mr. Lee

asked the Minister of Housing and Local Government what arrangements are contemplated for the rehousing of workers who are obliged to take jobs which are beyond daily travelling distance of their present homes.

Mr. Powell

I would refer the hon. Member to the reply given to the hon. Member for Islington, South-West (Mr. A. Evans) on 12th June, 1956.

Mr. Lee

Is it not a fact that the Government have said that they accept responsibility for the changes which will take place in industry, and how is it possible for local authorities to know precisely what mechanisation will mean in the way of people coming into their areas unless they have a Government lead on the matter? Will the hon. Gentleman cooperate with the Minister of Labour in trying to deal with the problem?

Mr. Powell

The principal consideration in the rehousing of those who have to move must be the building of houses, which is still going ahead at a rate never reached by the previous Administration.