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have made the present Bill a Bill by way of reference, and hope that
on an early date they will introduce a Bill to codify and simplify the
Acts relating to the Housing of Working Classes."
The addendum was carried.
A further addendum in the following terms was moved :—
"That this Congress is of opinion that local authorities should
be given a right of appeal to Parliament against any order of the Local
Government Board made under Clauses 12 and 51, and objected to
by such local authority."
On a show of hands being taken, the voting on the proposed addendum
resulted in a tie—31 for and 31 against. The Chairman gave his easting
vote against the addendum, which was accordingly defeated.
The Chairman finally moved the following resolution:—
"That, subject to the suggestions made in the resolutions passed,
this Congress heartily welcomes the Housing Bill, and trusts that it
will be passed into law during the present session of Parliament."
The resolution was adopted.
The Housing and Town Planning Bill.
To amend the law relating to the housing of the working classes, to
provide for the making of town planning schemes, and to make further
provision with respect to the appointment and duties of county Medical
Officers of Health, and to provide for the establishment of Public Health
and Housing Committees of County Councils. Presented by Mr. Burns
supported by Mr. Solicitor-General for Scotland, Mr. Attorney-General,
and Mr. Masterman.
Mr. Burns formally presented it for first reading on Wednesday,
February 17th, 1909.
There are four parts of the Bill. One part deals with the housing
of the working classes, another with town planning, and the third makes
further provision with respect to the appointment and duties of county
Medical Officers of Health, and also provides for the establishment of
Public Health and Housing Committees of County Councils. Included
in the housing part of the Bill is a clause defining the duty of local
authorities with regard to closing dwelling houses unfit for human