Mr. T. THOMSONasked the Minister of Health what is the maximum amount at present available for the annual Exchequer contributions to local authorities in connection with slum clearance schemes carried out under Part II of the Consolidated Housing Act, 1925; and what is the estimated total of the annual amount which will become payable by the Exchequer in respect of such schemes as have been approved by him up to 31st October, 1927?
Mr. CHAMBERLAINNo fixed allocation is made for Exchequer contributions towards the expenses of slum clearance schemes, the actual expenditure each year being dependent on the progress of the schemes sanctioned. The requirement for the year 1927–28 for which provision is included under the general housing grants1140W subhead of the Vote for the Ministry is estimated at £65,000, and the ultimate annual Exchequer liability in respect of such schemes approved to 31st October, 1927, is estimated roughly at £120,000.