THE HOUSING PROBLEM.

New Zealand Herald, Volume LX, Issue 18388, 2 May 1923, Page 6

THE HOUSING PROBLEM.

Sir,—Two letters on the 'above subject appeared in last Thursday's Herald, but neither writer seemed to realise that the matter is of great urgency. The letter over the signature " Brindle " treats the subject in rather a flippant manner. " Civ-is," on the other hand, made a strong plea for the admirable and wholesome policy of self-help. This I would be the last to disparage, but suggest that a satisfactory solution of the problem would be long deferred it it : has to wait on the moral growth of the people to such a standard of industry, thrift, selfdenial, and self-reliance as would impel them to voluntary celibacy till they have saved enough to establish them in a home of their own, which would probably be at from 35 to 40 years of age, and would not be advantageous either personally or socially. It is highly probable that married people will value more highly the comforts they have jointly striven for and won and are likely to be worthier citizens and better parents over their children for the struggle. Regarding, the careless or wanton destruction of rented dwellings, that, to some extent, could be fixed on the tenant. When " Civift " says that the person who urges local authorities to build the type of house in question, is the kind who blames everybody but himself (the real culprit) for his not being in a better position to assume the responsibilities of married life, and who is always expecting and clamouring for help, be overstates the case. The modern development of industry has no doubt helped to weaken the sense of persona! economic responsibility —while at the same time opportunities to waste time and wealth have been increasing. Population has also been increasing, while it appears, tha power to resist temptation is decreasing. Hence the duty rests on public bodies, such as the City Council, to do their best for the people who are. least able' to help themselves, and while so doing, become ■ the means of improving the moral" calibre of their tenants by refusing accommodation to those who are an annoyance and offence to their neighbours, or careless of '■ the houses they occupy. The risk of' ejectment will be found more persuasive than much exhortation to better behaviour, as will also be the collection of damages for careless and destructive tenancy. • . '. Peacticax. . .