§ Sir A. YEOasked the Minister of Health whether he is aware of pending proceedings for the eviction of some 70 tenants residing at Vernon Chambers, Southampton Row, London, for the purpose of enabling the buildings to be used as offices; whether he will institute an immediate inquiry into the circumstances of this case; and, in the meantime, whether he will help the tenants by giving legal assistance, or otherwise, to resist this attempt to turn them into the street, as they are unable in the prevailing conditions to obtain suitable accommodation elsewhere?
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§ Dr. ADDISONMy Department have already been in communication with the London County Council on this question, and have received a deputation from the tenants. Before these premises can be converted into offices the permission of the London County Council will have to be obtained under Section 6 of the Housing (Additional Powers) Act, and in this connection my Department have informed the London County Council that, without prejudging the case, it appears to them that the tenants have made out aprima facie case for consideration.