§ 22. Mr. WELLOCKasked the Minister of Health if he is aware that the price of bricks has risen from 27s. 6d. in April, 1914, to 60s. in October, 1928, in Birmingham, as against 29s. in April, 1914, and 40s. in October, 1928, in Newcastle-upon-Tyne, and that the price of bricks in the period mentioned has risen twice as much in the Midlands and the South as in the North of England; and if he will inquire into the matter?
Mr. CHAMBERLAINThe inter-Departmental Committee on prices of building materials have already drawn attention to the fact that reductions in the prices of bricks which have been made in many districts have not taken effect in Birmingham. I understand that the Committee have the matter still under consideration.
§ Mr. WELLOCKCan nothing be done to regulate this matter, as inquiries show that these prices make a difference of £10 to £20 in the cost of building a house in the Midlands compared with the North?
Mr. CHAMBERLAINI do not know how the hon. Member has arrived at his figures. The price varies, of course. He may rest assured that the matter is under consideration.
§ Mr. WELLOCK18,000 bricks at a £1 a thousand makes the difference.
§ Mr. CRAWFURDWith regard to the whole country, will the right hon. Gentleman consider again the possibility of circularising local authorities and suggesting that they should ask for tenders, not only from firms within the ring, but from those outside the ring as well?
Mr. CHAMBERLAINI think one may take it that the local authorities are quite able to look after themselves.
§ Mr. TAYLORWhen did the Committee meet last?