HC Deb 20 October 1920 vol 133 cc916-7
18. Mr. HOLMES

asked the President of the Board of Trade when the Report of the Central Profiteering Committee on Building Materials will be published?

Sir P. LLOYD-GREAME

A report on timber and a report on bricks have been published and presented to Parliament. The Sectional Committee investigating cement and mortar are approaching the end of their work and hope to render their report shortly. The investigations into light castings, stone, and clayware are still proceeding, and I am at present unable to state when these committees will be in a position to report.

Mr. KILEY

In view of the fact that the Committee has been sitting for nine months, could not something be done to expedite their report in view of the urgency of the housing question?

Sir P. LLOYD GREAME

I understand the Committee has been sitting with great regularity. I am sure the hon. Member will appreciate that it is very desirable that the Committee should make a complete and accurate report, and I am very much disinclined to hurry them and get a report which can be challenged.

Mr. KILEY

Nine months have already elapsed.