asked the Minister for Local Government and Public Health if he will state the reason of the delay in starting the Crabbe Lane housing scheme; if he is aware that estimates which were sent in on 24th May, 1927, in connection with this scheme would provide about £12,000 for payment of wages to relieve unemployment in the district.

The delay was due partly to difficulty in coming to a decision owing to the very high building cost involved and partly to a failure to get clear possession of the site. I am informed that the work is to be proceeded with forthwith.