36. Mr. T. THOMSONasked the Minister of Health what was the average cost of the houses built under the 1923 Housing Act by means of direct labour; and, if he cannot give these particulars to-day, how soon will he be in a position to do so?
Mr. CHAMBERLAINReliable figures as to the cost of direct labour schemes can only be given when the schemes are completed and the final accounts settled up. When a sufficient number of direct labour schemes have been completed I will see whether it is possible to obtain from local authorities information which will enable such an average cost as the hon. Member desires to be estimated.
Mr. THOMSONHow much longer will the House have to wait for this information; and is the right hon. Gentleman not of opinion that a considerable economy might be effected if we knew what these figures were?