HC Deb 03 December 1919 vol 122 c383
32. Mr. A. SHORT

asked the Minister of Health the respective prices before the War of bricks, cement, and other materials required in the building of houses and the prices at present prevailing?

The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the MINISTRY of MUNITIONS (Mr. James Hope)

Owing to the extent to which prices vary according to locality and quality of material, it is impossible to do more than make a very general comparison, but I shall be glad to furnish my hon. Friend with such information as the Department possesses.

Mr. BILLING

Is it not a fact that the prices of building materials have doubled within the last eight months, and in those circumstances, having regard to the fact that that has happened after the War, will not the Department see if something cannot be done to ascertain the reason for this doubling of prices?

Mr. HOPE

The question asked was with regard to pre-war prices and present prices. I should require notice as to the prices eight months ago.