§ Mr. Haleasked the Minister of Works, (1) what was the approximate cost to the Exchequer of the upkeep and repair of grace and favour houses in the twelve months to the latest convenient date;
(2) what is the approximate area of floor space of grace and favour houses now repaired and decorated at the public expense;
(3) how many grace and favour houses now repaired and decorated at the public expense are at present vacant; and how many were vacant in 1944.
117W
§ Lord John HopeThe approximate area is 350,000 sq. ft. and the approximate cost was £27,000 in the twelve months to 31st March, 1961. Occupants of these Apartments are responsible for the cost of decorations, tenant's repairs and of heat, light, water and rates during their occupation, but decorations and maintenance are carried out at public expense on change of occupation. Twenty apartments are at present vacant, of which eight are likely to be re-occupied in the near future. Twenty-nine were vacant in 1944.
§ Mr. Haleasked the Minister of Works what is the number of persons at present accommodated in grace and favour houses now repaired and decorated at the public expense.
§ Lord John HopeI understand there are at present grace and favour grants118W to 125 persons. I have no information about the number of persons in these households.