§ Mr. G. LOCKER-LAMPSONasked the Minister of Health whether a number of music halls, picture palaces, etc., are being erected in North London; and whether he is taking any steps to discourage the building of these at the present moment in view of the shortage of working-class dwellings?
§ Dr. ADDISONI have made enquiries and am informed that a certain number of buildings of this character are in course of erection in the North London and adjoining districts. The duty of deciding whether action should be taken to prohibit such buildings rests at present entirely with the local authorities. I have issued a memorandum for the guidance of local authorities, and I will send the hon. Member a copy. I may add, how- 2265W ever, that in my view the existing powers require strengthening, and the Ministry of Health (Miscellaneouos Provisions) Bill now before Parliament contains provisions to this end.