asked the Minister of Works if he is aware that the continued requisitioning of 21, Portland Place, London, W.1, for office purposes is compelling the lessee to occupy the flat over the garage in the rear of the house, which is quite inadequate to house his family: and if he will take steps to have the premises derequisitioned at an early date so that the lessee may return to his home.

These premises are in course of preparation for occupation by a staff of the Ministry of Health, and while I regret the inconvenience to the lessee I am unable to arrange for the premises to be derequisitioned at an early date.

Does the Minister think it right that a Government Department should squat in a private house in peacetime?

This is not a case which compares, on compassionate grounds, with other cases, and the provision of accommodation for the Ministry of Health is necessary in order to deal with the housing needs of poorer people.

Is it sleeping accommodation?