§ 38. Mr. SWANasked the Minister of Health if is he is aware of the protests of local authorities due to the inaction of the Government in not taking steps to prevent the continual increases in the cost of materials for building, and that such prices are materially retarding the progress of the erection of houses for the working classes, and add considerably to the cost thereof; and if the Government will take immediate steps to reduce the present prices and prevent further rises.
§ 71. Mr. CROOKSasked the Minister of Health whether he has received a resolution from the Woolwich borough council and any other local authorities protesting against the failure of the Government to deal with the continual increases in the cost of building materials, which is retarding the erection of houses; and whether the Government propose to take any action in this matter?
§ Dr. ADDISONI have received a number of resolutions on this subject from local authorities, but as I have previously stated they are founded on a misapprehension. I myself take any action that is possible for me in the matter, and some time ago my right hon. Friend the President of the Board of Trade ordered an investigation into the whole question by a Committee appointed under the Profiteering Act. The inquiries of that Committee are not yet completed.
§ Mr. SWANIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that these trade combines are keeping a large number of men out of employment, that trade unionists are protesting against such combines, and will he take some steps to break up combinations which are holding up the building materials of the country?
§ Dr. ADDISONI am not aware that they are keeping trade unionists out of work, but the whole of the matter is dealt with by the appropriate Department. I cannot take any action until I get some recommendations.