HC Deb 12 March 1925 vol 181 cc1507-8
66. Mr. J. BECKETT

asked the Minister of Health if he has considered the disadvantage or otherwise of stamped metal ceilings; whether he is aware that these ceilings permit water to ooze through from one floor to another; that the dripping from the condensation upon them is unhealthy and unpleasant; and that the Gateshead Town Council, after having one trial ceiling fitted, decided lo revert to plaster ceilings; and whether he will issue advice to local authorities considering housing schemes with regard to their utility.

Mr. CHAMBERLAIN

I am aware that, stamped metal ceilings have been criticised on the grounds stated in the question; but I understand that the Gateshead Town Council abandoned the experiment of using them because the local plasterers threatened to strike if it was continued. In answer to the last part of the question, I am quite prepared to give advice where desired to any local authorities in respect of methods of new construction experiments, which I desire to encourage as much as possible.

Mr. MONTAGUE

Is not the right hon. Gentleman aware of the fact that a previous answer to that question gave reasons why the local plasterers threatened to go on strike?

Mr. CHAMBERLAIN

I do not think that arises out of this question.

Mr. BECKETT

May I ask for what reason, if any, the Plasterers' Union protested, and whether there was a strike or not?

Mr. CHAMBERLAIN

I understand that they threatened to strike, and that in consequence of that the Gateshead Town Council did not go on with the experiment they were trying.

Mr. BECKETT

But why?

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