63. Sir F. HALLasked the Minister of Health how many works were carried out by the Islington Metropolitan Borough Council by direct labour during the two years- ending 31st December, 1921; what was the total cost of such works and what was the total of the original estimate prepared by the Council's officers; whether the Borough Council proposes to construct its new Town Hall by direct labour, notwithstanding that two lower tenders were sent in by outside contractors; if he can give the amounts of those tenders and of the estimate of the Council's officers by which the work is to be done; and whether, in view of the burden which this policy imposes on the ratepayers, he will consider as to making representations to the Borough Council on the matter?
§ Sir A. MONDI have not the information which would enable me to reply to the first two parts of the question. I understand that the Borough Council propose to construct their new Town Hall by direct labour at an estimated cost of £61,000, and that the two lowest tenders received were for £59,936 and £60,577 respectively. I have no authority to intervene in the matter. The London County Council are the loan-sanctioning authority in these cases.