§ Sir J. Lucasasked the Minister of Health if he is aware that in some cases habitable houses, urgently needed, are standing empty in heavily bombed areas; that if the whereabouts of the owners, or in some cases the names of the owners, are unknown, the local councils have no power to requisition; and if he will authorise them to do so after advertisement in the local papers.
§ Mr. WillinkLocal authorities already have the power to requisition suitable unoccupied premises for housing purposes in the circumstances mentioned. I am making inquiries into the particular case of which my hon. and gallant Friend has informed me.