§ Major W. MURRAYasked the Secretary for Scotland whether he is aware that the housing conditions in Kirk-cannel, Dumfriesshire, are most inadequate; that though 50 additional houses were allocated to Kirkconnel last autumn by the Scottish Board of Health no buildings are yet in course of erection; and whether he will state the reasons for this long delay and, if possible, cause the houses to be proceeded with?
§ Mr. MUNROI am aware that additional houses are required in the village named. Of 24 houses previously approved by the Scottish Board of Health, 16 are ready for occupancy and eight are nearing completion. As regards the 50 additional houses referred to, which were allocated to the local authority in December last, the Scottish Board of Health 563W were not prepared to agree to the houses being placed on the site desired by the county council owing to the additional cost involved. Negotiations have been proceeding between the Board and the county council regarding the matter, and it is hoped that it may be disposed of at an early date.