asked the Secretary of State for Scotland how many of the 622 houses built for sale at Merrylee by Glasgow Corporation were completed and ready for occupancy as at 30th November, 31st December, 31st January and 29th February, respectively; and how many have been occupied as at 20th March, 1952.

Commander Galbraith:

I am informed by Glasgow Corporation that 24 of these houses were ready for occupation at 30th November, 50 at 31st December, 78 at 31st January and 102 at 29th February. None had been occupied at 20th March.

Is the hon. and gallant Gentleman aware that Glasgow has 100,000 people on the waiting list and, while every effort has been made to inspire and encourage those people to purchase these houses, not one in 200 has responded. It is criminal to keep houses unoccupied for a long period. Is the hon. and gallant Gentleman prepared to withdraw permission for the sale?

Commander Galbraith:

I think it is only fair to the corporation that they should have time in which to decide the matter. May I remind the hon. Gentleman that the matter of the allocation of houses is one entirely for local authorities?

Does the hon. and gallant Gentleman not agree that it is a gross breach of faith to allow these houses, which were originally allocated for tenant occupancy, to be put up for sale?

Commander Galbraith:

The right hon. and learned Gentleman seems to differ from his hon. Friend, who says that the houses were built for sale.

Could the hon. and gallant Gentleman tell us how many applications have been received from intending purchasers?

Commander Galbraith:

I should require notice of that question.