§ Sir R. Gowerasked the Minister of Health whether he can make any statement as to the extent to which residents dispossessed from slum-clearance houses have been re-housed at similar rents; and whether local authorities are expected to offer alternative accommodation at substantially the same rent as previously paid?
§ Sir K. WoodThe powers contained in the Housing Act, 1936, are sufficient to enable local authorities to provide alternative accommodation to dispossessed tenants at rents suitable to their circumstances. I have no reason to suppose that local authorities do not have regard to the rent previously paid, but I would remind my hon. Friend that the intention of the pooling of all the houses owned by the authorities was that the benefit of low rents with the aid of the subsidies and rate assistance should be given to those tenants who need it most.
§ Sir A. Gridleyasked the Minister of Health whether he will state the average payment made to owners of houses condemned during 1936 under slum-clearance schemes, but which have been regarded by his inspectors as well maintained?
§ Sir K. WoodThe Housing Acts prescribe the basis on which payments in respect of well-maintained houses are to2202W be made by local authorities, and I have no information as to the actual amounts paid. I am, however, making inquiries and will communicate with my hon. Friend when the information is available.