DUNEDIN SLUMS

Waikato Times, Volume 124, Issue 20820, 2 June 1939, Page 2

DUNEDIN SLUMS

AW.EOED EXAGGERATION MINISTER'S REMARKS RESENTED CHEAPER HOUSES WANTED (By Telegraph.—Press Association) DUNEDIN, Thursday Statement made by the Minister of Rousing, the Hon. 11. T. Armstrong, in Christchurcji, concerning Dunedin's slums are described as grossly exaggerated and a slur on the city. The Mayor, Mr A. II Allen, said to-day that at the Government’s request a very extensive survey of dwellings in the older portion of the city was made, and the result forwarded to Wellington. So far nothing further in the matter had been done by the GovernmenL “ It must be remembered,” said the Mayor, ” that people living in the houses complained of doing so because they are unable to pay higher rents. The homes being erected by the Government are beyond the means of these people on account of the high rentals being asked by the Government, the rentals averaging 27s 6d a week, to •which must be added the maximum tram fares to those outlying parts o! the city where the houses are situated. ” It Would be pleasing to hear from the Minister that the Government is prepared to erect cheaper dwellings, which would be available to those people living in the houses he condemns, and at a rental which these people would be able to pay. Some progress would then be possible in connection with the demolition of very old dwellings.”