HC Deb 02 August 1939 vol 350 c2413W
Mr. Cape

asked the Minister of Health whether he appreciates the extremely difficult position of the people in the Ennerdale Rural District and other rural districts and urban districts in West Cumberland who are being compulsorily removed from their homes in clearance areas owing to the high rents which they are called upon to pay for the rehousing accommodation; and can he say what relief he will give to these people owing to the hardships they are suffering because of the increased rent they are called upon to pay?

Miss Horsbrugh

My right hon. Friend is aware that in certain of the districts in question difficulty is anticipated in connection with the rent for the rehousing accommodation. He has power under Section 1 (3) of the Housing (Financial Provisions) Act, 1938, to grant additional subsidy in certain circumstances upon application to him by the local authority of the area concerned. Some of these applications are at present before him and an early decision is expected.