§ 79. Mr. T. JOHNSTONasked the Minister of Health to what extent the cost of building materials decreased after the withdrawal of the housing subsidy in 1921; and what percentage it has again increased since the introduction of the new Housing Bill?
§ Lord E. PERCYAlthough a limit was put upon the Assisted Schemes in 1921, construction continued under the private builders' subsidy scheme until June, 1922, and the whole of the houses under the local authorities' assisted scheme are not yet completed. The decrease in the cost of materials, as required for the construction of a working-class house in the London area, between July, 1921, and April, 1923, was about 42 per cent. There is no evidence of any average increase of price since the introduction of the new Housing Bill.
§ Mr. JOHNSTONHas the Noble Lord seen in the Press that cement shares have been jumping in value since the housing scheme was announced?
§ Lord E. PERCYYes, but the hon. Member does not refer to shares but to prices.
§ Captain BERKELEYIs the Noble Lord aware that there has been a considerable increase in the price of light castings for houses since the Housing Bill was introduced?
§ Lord E. PERCYMy information is that there is nothing to show that there has been an average increase throughout the country.
§ Captain BERKELEYI did not ask about an average increase. I asked whether there was an increase in the cost of light castings.
§ Lord E. PERCYYes, and I replied I am informed there is no average increase.