§ 126. Mr. Rentonasked the Minister of Works upon what principle requisitioned buildings becoming vacant are allocated between Government Departments, local authorities and private individuals, firms or businesses who may require them; and why no steps are taken to fill such buildings until they become vacant, even when it is apparent several months in advance that they are about to be vacated.
§ Mr. KeyThe principle is to make buildings available to meet the most urgent need. Thus, as soon as buildings such as small houses and flats can be freed, they are made available for housing. Similarly, schools, hotels, etc., which have high priority are derequisitioned without being offered to any other Department. Buildings which are of lower priority for release may be retained for use by another Department. Departments are asked to give my Ministry the longest possible notice of release of premises so that their future use can be settled.