§ 75. Mr. GILBERTasked the Minister of Health whether he is aware that there is still a great shortage of cement and bricks for building purposes; whether his Department has any control over both these articles; can he make any statement as to how such control is exercised; if any preference is given for housing for these materials; and if other types of buildings, such as factories, are also allowed supplies?
§ Dr. ADDISONI am aware that in some parts of the country there have been difficulties in obtaining cement and bricks for building purposes. I have no control over these articles, but certain building materials, including bricks and cement, are purchased by the Department of Building Materials Supply, recently transferred to me from the Ministry of Muni- 1249 tions, and sold to local authorities and others for use in connection with housing schemes.
§ Viscount CURZONMay I ask whether the right hon. Gentleman has inquired into the question of how much of these materials is being used for export to France?
§ Dr. ADDISONNone of this material has been used for export. I know that some has been used for export, but none of the material referred to in the question.