§ Mr. HARRISasked the Minister of Health how many houses have been commenced and how many have been completed by rural district councils under the Housing Acts of 1923 and 1924; and if he is satisfied that the present rate of building is adequate to overtake the demand?
§ Sir K. WOOD9,659 houses have been commenced and 4,934 completed by rural district councils under the Housing Acts of 1923 and 1924. The numbers commenced and completed respectively by private enterprise in rural districts are 42,495 and 31,346. The output of new houses has considerably increased since the passing of the Act of 1923; and my right hon. Friend is satisfied that it is now sufficient to cover the needs of the normal annual increase of population and to make a substantial contribution towards meeting arrears of building. I may add that the Government are giving very careful consideration to the rural housing problem.