§ Mr. Lubbockasked the Minister of Housing and Local Government, in view of the fact that the Royal Assent will not be given to the Rent Bill until after the Summer Recess, what plans he has for minimising the delay before the machinery provided for in the Bill is established.
§ Mr. CrossmanI am proceeding as quickly as possible with preparations for establishing the proposed machinery. The clerks of the local authorities concerned are making their plans for the rent officer service and draft schemes are being prepared. As regards the rent assessment committees, I would refer the hon. Member to the reply I gave to my hon. and learned Friend the Member for Dulwich (Mr. S. C. Silkin) on 3rd August about the proposed appointments to the Rent Assessment Panel for Greater London. I am also considering appointments to other panels and arrangements are being made for accommodation and for the appointment of supporting staff.