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Prices (Control)

Volume 387: debated on Thursday 18 March 1943

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asked the Minister of Health whether, in view of the fictitious prices at which houses are being sold, he will take steps to end this abuse?

The inquiries which I have made do not indicate a general increase which is disproportionate to wartime variations of costs and wages generally, and the increases are confined to the limited number of houses in the safer areas which are sold with vacant possession for occupation by the purchaser. I have re-examined the problem recently and in view of its limited nature and of the powers of billeting and requisitioning which enable me to meet the needs of people who are required to move in connection with the war effort, I do not consider that I should be justified at present in asking Parliament for the new powers which would be necessary.