§ Mr. KIRKWOODasked the Minister of Health if he is aware that, as compared with pre-War standards, the property owners have had their profits increased
1218Wslum clearance schemes, completed with State assistance in Scotland during the 12 months ended 31st January, 1934, was 13,969. Of these, 5,203 houses were completed by private enterprise, but no information is available as to the rents charged for them, if let. The remaining 8,766 houses were completed by local authorities, and the information so far received by the Department of Health shows that of these, 7,068 houses have rents of less than £30 per annum (exclusive of occupier's rates). The desired rental classification and the Acts under which these houses were provided are shown in the following statement. No houses were completed by local authorities without State assistance during the period referred to. The number completed by unassisted private enterprise during the year ended 31st December, 1933, was 5,570, but no information is available as to the rents charged for these houses, if let.
by about 50 per cent., whereas the wages of the workers have decreased by about 25 per cent.; and whether, in these circumstances, he will reconsider his decision and introduce a Bill to reduce rents to the pre-War level?
1219W
§ Mr. SHAKESPEAREMy right hon. Friend is aware of the provisions of the Rent Restrictions Acts, but not of the grounds for the hon. Member's estimates of profits and wages. He fears he cannot add anything to the reply given to the hon. Member's question of Monday last.