§ 72. Mr. Awberyasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies if he is aware that the Singapore Government has stated that a minimum of 13,000 houses in a year is necessary over a period of 10 years; that the Singapore Improvement Trust is planning to build only 1,200 units in 1953; and what steps are being taken to increase the number of houses and, in particular, to meet the need of low cost housing for workers earning less than $200 a month.
§ Mr. LytteltonYes. I am aware that the figures quoted by the hon. Member were given in the Press recently. My information is that the target of 1,200 units to accommodate 8,000 people was 55W for 1952. The Singapore Improvement Trust has now altered its policy and is concentrating on low-cost flats to be let at an average rental of $20 (46s. 8d.) per month.
I am awaiting information about the 1953 programme.