Large areas of slum properties were partially or entirely demolished in the course of the hostilities, particularly in the Eastern District where it is estimated that from 35 to 55 per per cent. of this class of property was affected—424 properties situated mainly on the borders of the northern areas were also destroyed.
Practically no change has occurred in other parts of the Settlement, With the large influx of population, mostly refugees, a very serious housing problem existed, completely preventing the clearance of slum areas. Excessive overcrowding took place, every conceivable place of accommodation being utilized.
Whilst 1,356 squatter huts were destroyed in areas affected by hostilities it is estimated that nearly 10,000 nuts, with a population of approximately 100,000, made their appearance in the Western District, every available piece of vacant land being thus occupied.
Text read from the printed page and cleaned; old type leaves the occasional error.