§ Mr. PONSONBYasked the Minister of Labour, as representing the Ministry of Health, whether the Government, having made themselves responsible for the temporary housing of 3,500 people in Sheffield, will also make themselves responsible for the erection of proper houses in place of the wooden shelters, many of which are in need of repair and all of which are unsuitable for the permanent accommodation of the families who are now obliged to inhabit them?
§ Sir M. BARLOWThese houses were provided to meet a war emergency in Sheffield. The Government cannot undertake to replace them by permanent dwellings, but my right hon. Friend understands that they are being maintained for the time being in suitable condition.
§ Mr. PONSONBYasked the First Commissioner of Works whether he will consider a reduction of the high rents charged for the bungalows erected on the Sheffield estates, considering the many disadvantages which render them unsuitable for human habitation?
§ Sir J. BAIRDI cannot agree that the rents are high, or that the houses are un-2618W suitable for human habitation. There is a long waiting list of applicants for these houses, and no difficulty is experienced in re-letting them when vacancies occur.