Captain TERRELLasked the Minister of Health whether he intends to introduce legislation extending the building subsidy from 23rd December, 1920, until 23rd December, 1921; and whether he has considered the possibility of extending the subsidy in a modified form to alterations and remodelling of houses so as to make them supply increased housing provision?
§ Dr. ADDISONI propose to introduce a Bill extending the period for the housing subsidy. With regard to the last part of the question, I may remind the hon. and gallant Member that an Amendment to provide for subsidies in respect of alterations or enlargements of existing houses1816W was considered on the Housing (Additional Powers) Bill and defeated on a Division.
§ Major STEELasked the Minister of Health whether he will consider the advisability of introducing a short Bill to amend the Housing (Additional Powers) Act, 1919, so as to give the Ministry discretionary powers to make a grant to persons constructing a house which complies with conditions laid down, but which is constructed by the use of walls or other parts of buildings which were in existence at the time of the passing of the Act in order to obviate the hardship which exists upon a person who has constructed a house, but who has used an existing wall or the like for its construction, and who at present is precluded from any grant?
§ Dr. ADDISONIn view of the practical difficulties which it would involve, I am afraid it will be impossible to deal with this matter by legislation, but such cases as do occur will be dealt with on their merits in the course of administration.