HC Deb 06 August 1919 vol 119 cc392-3W
Mr. N. MACLEAN

asked the Home Secretary whether he is aware that Mrs. Coxhead has been ordered by County Petty Sessions to leave her house at Berries Bank, Berks, within six weeks; whether he is aware that her husband is a corporal in the Army with eight years' service, and appeared in Court to defend the case; and what he proposes to do to protect the homes of the men who fought for their country, and thereby prevent their families from being evicted?

Major BAIRD

My right hon. Friend has no knowledge of this case. Parliament has since war began greatly restricted the rights of house-owners over properties of moderate value by not allowing them to recover possession except on showing sufficient cause, and the Home Secretary has no authority to extend these restrictions further.

Mr. MACLEAN

asked the Secretary for Scotland whether he is aware that Sheriff-substitute Moffat has decided that the Rev. John M. Munro, 17, Cochrane Street, Falkirk, has to vacate his house, although the sheriff, after inspection, decided that the alternative accommodation offered was not suitable; and whether, in view of the provisions of the Rent Restriction Act, he proposes to take any steps in the matter?

Mr. MUNRO

I have asked for a report as to the facts, but I have not yet received it. The Rent Restriction Act does not, however, confer on me any power to interfere with the decision of the Court in such a case.

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