HC Deb 07 February 1967 vol 740 cc1342-3
22. Mr. Frank Allaun

asked the Minister of Housing and Local Government if, because of their practical knowledge of housing, repair and improvement questions, he will consider including at least one public health inspector in the staff of his Department.

Mr. Mellish

The recent secondment of a public health inspector to the Department for a year proved most useful and my right hon. Friend will keep in mind the possibility of a similar arrangement for the future, but he is not satisfied that a full-time appointment would be justified at present.

Mr. Allaun

But is the Joint Parliamentary Secretary aware that these devoted men made more than 20,000 house visits a day, which gives them exceptional personal understanding of the problems involved, and that the Ministry of Health has two on its staff?

Mr. Mellish

Oh, yes, I accept that and the local authorities have made available some 25 of their inspectors to carry out field work on a national survey of housing conditions. It will last another month. We recognise the ability and the integrity of these people. My hon. Friend asked for a permanent appointment. I will look into that. We use these people when we can.

Mr. Blenkinsop

In view of that rather disappointing reply, may I ask my hon. Friend to look at this again to see if he can use the contribution these men can make, not only at the Ministry of Health but in other Departments as well?

Mr. Mellish

Yes, Sir.