29. Mr. T. THOMSONasked the Minister of Health whether he is aware that, notwithstanding the promise to the House by the Prime Minister on 21st July, 1921, that not a single house less would be built in consequence of the change in the Government's housing policy which he then announced, there has been a reduction in the number of men employed in building houses under assisted schemes from 148,026 in,July, 1921, to 66,651 in June. 1922: and what further steps do the Government. propose to take to fulfil their promise that no fewer houses would be built as the result of their changed policy?
§ Sir A. MONDI am aware of the figures quoted in the first part of the question. As regards the second part I can add nothing at present to the statements on housing policy which I have made to the House on previous occasions.
Mr. THOMSONWill the right hon. Gentleman be able to say anything before the House rises, in view of the increasing shortage that will take place during the next three months?
§ Mr. HOPKINSONIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that it requires many fewer men now to build houses than it did when the Government scheme was introduced?
§ Sir A. MONDI know of the reduced number of men required, and that the position is much improved. As regards the question of the hon. Member for Middlesbrough West, I cannot give any undertaking.