§ Major G. Lloydasked the Minister of Works how many private dwelling houses are still requisitioned by Government Departments; how many are now unoccupied or only partly occupied; how much living accommodation this still requisitioned property represents; and whether he will provide such figures once a month in future showing how the total of such dwelling houses is divided among the various Departments.
§ Mr. WilsonAt the end of September last Government Departments (excluding the Health Departments who hold property primarily for residential purposes) held on requisition about 14,000 dwelling houses of up to 12 rooms and 8,000 larger dwelling houses. On the preceding 1st January the figures were 30,000 and 10,000 respectively. I have forwarded to the hon. Member a statement showing how the totals of such dwelling houses are divided among the various Departments. A similar statement could be provided monthly if the hon. Member so desired. It would not be possible, without an undue expenditure of labour, to say how many of the houses were unoccupied or only partly occupied, particularly as the occupation by Service personnel constantly changes. I am assured that no houses are retained except those required for definite commitments.