§ Mr. R. Morganasked the Minister of Health whether he is aware that the Aysgarth Rural District Council is requiring extensive repairs to houses in their area under Section 9 of the Housing Act, 1936; and whether, in view of the un-desirability of employing labour on work which is not essential, he will take steps to discourage such requirements?
§ Mr. E. BrownThe question of the extent to which local authorities should exercise their powers under Section 9 of the Housing Act, 1936, in particular cases is a matter for their decision in the light of all the circumstances. I have no reason to believe that local authorities generally, in the exercise of those powers, do not have full regard to the considerations mentioned by my hon. Friend. Indeed 829W it would not be possible for owners to obtain the necessary labour and materials to carry out any extensive repairs. I am not aware of any specific action taken by Aysgarth Rural District Council, but if my hon. Friend will send me particulars, I will have inquiries made and write to him.