asked the Minister of Housing and Local Government if he will introduce legislation limiting the tied cottage system to those cases where the employer proves, to the satisfaction of the Minister of Labour, that such system is necessary to the conduct of his business; and if he will circularise local authorities requesting them to ensure that, where an order for the possession of a tied house is obtained, the tenant shall receive priority consideration for rehousing.

The answer to the first part of the Question is "No." As to the second part, it is for the local authorities to judge relative housing need in allocating their tenancies.

asked the Minister of Housing and Local Government if he is aware of the hardships caused to widows of deceased workmen who occupied tied cottages; and if he will introduce amending legislation to protect them.

The hon. Member has informed me of the facts of a particular case, but I have had no other special representations on this matter. I do not propose to introduce legislation.