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(iv)
the way to a new development in building to let; and hasten the
modernising of thousands of older houses. These, and a continued
high rate of new buildings, are the prime needs of the next few
years.
It is emphasised that there is a need to concentrate on slum
clearance and building for old people and those who are living in
overcrowded squalid conditions though not in unfit houses, who
cannot rehouse themselves by their own efforts.
The increased provision of suitable housing accommodation is
one of the most important services for old people. An increasing
proportion of local authority housing is of this type, but there
is considerable leeway to be made up, There is no doubt that many
of the elderly are greatly handicapped by remaining in dwellings
that are too big for their needs, or, beyond their physical capabilities.
Old people prefer to spend their last years in a house
of their own among their own possessions and memories; their own
community of relatives and friends; but the provision of suitably
designed and equipped homes enables the old person to retain his
independence for longer than before.
Local Government in Greater London - A White Paper on London
Government was published at the end of November 196l, in which the
Government agreed with the Commission in thinking that the boroughs
should be the primary unit of local government in London, It was
considered that the new boroughs should. be larger than proposed by
the Royal Commission, A map issued by the Minister of Housing and
Local Government showed details of the possible future local government
groupings of 34- boroughs with a population range of 180,000 to
360,000.
By the time this Report is published, it is likely that the
Minister of Housing and Local Government will have concluded his
Conferences with marginal and other local authorities and made clear
where the boundary of Greater London will run.
It is also possible that he will have indicated a modification:
in the original grouping planned for Kingston and neighbouring
authorities, and the size and grouping eventually decided of the
Greater London Borough,
It is proposed that the outlined changes in London Government
will become effective in April 1965,