§ Major COLVILLEasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what steps, if any, are taken to ensure that as far as possible British materials only are used in State-aided housing schemes in Scotland?
Mr. ADAMSONIn view of the express terms of Sub-section (1) of Section 10 of 839W the Housing (Financial Provisions) Act, 1924, the Department of Health for Scotland cannot prevent the materials required for State-aided housing schemes in Scotland being purchased in the cheapest market at home or abroad. I am, however, considering, along with the Minister of Health, the case for taking steps with a view to the introduction of legislation to amend that Section at the earliest possible date.
Major WOODasked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he has received complaints regarding the restricted interpretation being given to the words agaricultural workers in the Housing (Rural Workers) Act, 1926; whether he is aware that small farmers who wish to improve their own dwelling-houses have been denied assistance under the Act; and whether he will consider the advisability of issuing a circular to guide local authorities in the matter?
Mr. ADAMSONI am aware that questions have been raised as to whether a grant under the Housing (Rural Workers) Act, 1926, can be paid in respect of a house occupied by a farmer. The matter is one for the determination of the local authority in each individual case, with due regard principally to the requirements of Sub-section (1) (a) of Section 3 of the Act, and I do not consider that a circular such as is suggested could usefully add anything to the terms of that Section.