Mr. THOMSONalso asked the Minister of Health if he is aware that there are still a number of empty houses withheld from occupation in overcrowded areas; and will he reconsider the desirability of taking further steps to secure the use of such houses?
Mr. CHAMBERLAINI am aware that there is always a certain number of unoccupied houses which are held for sale. I would point out that local authorities already have power to purchase or lease houses suitable for the working classes, and I do not consider that it would be practicable to promote further legislation on the subject.