HC Deb 13 December 1962 vol 669 cc566-7
25. Mr. Dalyell

asked the Minister of Housing and Local Government and Minister for Welsh Affairs if he will grant subsidies to those local authorities who are contemplating providing floating homes in obsolete liners.

Sir K. Joseph

I have had no proposals from any local authority to provide such accommodation. And I have no power to pay subsidy towards the cost of such accommodation.

Mr. Dalyell

Would not the Minister agree that it is precisely in the river areas which are so desperately overcrowded that cabins for newly-married couples, who might not hit it off with their in-laws, would be desirable?

Sir K. Joseph

I hope that we can increase our housing provision and so avoid the need for this solution, which would have all sorts of implications regarding safety and other factors which would have to be taken into account; and which is anyway beyond my existing powers.

Mr. Dalyell

But does not the Minister agree that this problem is with us now?