§ The question was as follows:
§ [To ask His Majesty's Government what steps have been taken to carry out the intention announced by the Minister of Health on July 31, 1947, to include in the housing programme the provision of financial assistance for the improvement of existing houses in town and country whether carried out by a local authority or by other persons.]
§ LORD HENDERSONMy Lords, while it remains the intention of His Majesty's Government to include in their housing programme provision of the nature described by the noble Lord, it also remains their opinion that for the present the most urgent need is to concentrate on the building of new houses as much labour and materials as can be made available. No steps have, therefore, yet been taken to introduce legislation providing financial assistance for the improvement of existing houses, but the matter will be considered further as soon as circumstances permit.
LORD O'HAGANMy Lords, arising from that answer I would like to ask the noble Lord whether the discussions with the local authority organizations have been instituted with a view to arranging for a plan on this matter, as was indicated in a reply in another place?
§ LORD HENDERSONMy Lords, I am not aware of the discussions to which the noble Lord refers. All I can say is that a circular has been sent out to the local authorities on the matter. If the noble Lord has not seen a copy I shall be very happy to supply him with one.