HC Deb 02 July 1931 vol 254 cc1446-7
38. Commander BELLAIRS

asked the Minister of Health whether he is satisfied that local authorities are acting in conformity with Circular No. 569 of 24th March, 1925, which recommends that when there is no alternative to purchasing material from abroad the local authorities should keep in mind preference for goods and materials of Imperial origin; and whether this has been or is being done in connection with timber and joinery used in housing schemes?

Mr. GREENWOOD

I have no reason to believe that local authorities generally are not acting in conformity with the advice which has been given to them on this subject.

Commander BELLAIRS

How does the Minister of Health account for the fact that 600,000 Russian doors are being imported this year into this country, and could not the material be ordered from the Empire or from this country?

Mr. GREENWOOD

I have no knowledge that those doors are being used on publicly assisted houses.

Mr. GRAHAM WHITE

In view of the frequent changes in the personnel of local authorities, would the right hon. Gentleman consider re-issuing this circular as a reminder?

Mr. GREENWOOD

It is constantly being brought before the notice of local authorities, but to require them to buy British or Empire doors would necessitate legislation.