HC Deb 14 November 1961 vol 649 cc38-9W
67. Mr. Mellish

asked the Minister of Housing and Local Government and Minister for Welsh Affairs if he is aware of the increase in the number of home less families in London, mainly due to the operation of the Rent Act, 1957; and if he will state his proposals to deal with this situation.

Dr. Hill

I have already discussed with the London County Council what action they, as housing authority, could take. It is the London County Council who have the power, the responsibility and the financial resources to tackle this problem, and I have promised my full support within my powers. As to the hon. Gentleman's assertion as to the main cause, the hon. Member would do well to await the outcome of a special investigation which the County Council have undertaken in order to discover the causes of the recent increase in homelessness in London.