28 
THE HOUSING QUESTION 
People sometimes have the idea that more cottages 
are not wanted in the country, and that the existing 
ones are all that can be desired. “ How pretty" 
they say, as they fly past in a car. “ Do look at those 
roses on that cottage.” But it is not the roses 
which matter; it is the drains, and it is as well not to 
look at those—if there are any. 
It is only God’s air and sunlight which saves the 
countryside from epidemics as serious as any in the 
slums. The rural labourer knows this and he is not 
content. 
FIFTH EXCUSE 
That the Working Classes cannot Afford to Pay 
the Rent 
The present Minister of Health is the principal propa 
gator of this excuse, which is very widely held. Let 
us quote from his speech to the House of Commons 
on July 2 ist, 1921 :— 
" The Chairman of a Housing Committee, full of enthusiasm, 
and the Medical Officer of Health come and talk to me about 
the vast number of houses required, whilst the Chairman of the 
Finance Committee and other officers of the Corporation assure 
me that if you build these houses there is not the slightest likelihood 
of their ever being let.” 
Again:— 
" There has been a trade depression and people who entered 
themselves as applicants for these houses are now not so anxious 
to take them. Unfortunately a great many cannot afford to 
take them.”