§ 6. Mr. Jannerasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he is aware that about 150 prison medical officers who occupy Government-owned houses are having 1112 their rent put up under the provisions of the Rent Act, 1957, to two or three times the original amount; and what steps lie proposes to take by way of compensation.
§ Mr. R. A. ButlerThe increase pro- posed affects 33 prison medical officers. It arises from the general decision that rents for Government-owned quarters should be related as closely as possible to those charged by private landlords. The matter is at present under discussion with the staff association concerned.
§ Mr. JannerOwing to this very serious attack on the housing of the people as a whole and in consequence of the Government's action which has placed these people in this unfortunate position, does not the right hon. Gentleman consider that the Home Office ought to ensure that the salaries are supplemented so that they can meet the increase in rents?
§ Mr. ButlerI do not accept the whole of the hon. Gentleman's interpretation of Government policy and attitude; apart from that, I will try to do my best for these officers.