§ 7. Mr. Wallasked the Minister of Housing and Local Government what arrangements have been reached with local authorities regarding the allocation of housing to regular Servicemen on discharge.
§ Mr. MellishThe great majority of housing authorities accept the recommendations contained in the circular which my right hon. Friend issued last year and consider applications from Servicemen on the basis of their housing need without regard to length of residence in the locality. He will be pursuing the matter further with those who find difficulty in doing so.
§ Mr. WallCan the hon. Gentleman say whether this circular is intended to apply to all local authorities? How many years prior to discharge is a Regular Service man entitled to register for a house?
§ Mr. MellishThe circular applied to all local authorities with housing powers. It will interest the hon. Genteman to know that only 74 have replied that they are unable, for one reason or another, to comply. We are taking the matter up further with them. We are determined that Service men shall be given some help in this matter.