81. Mr. SIMONasked the Minister of Health whether he is aware that the Report of the Committee on the Prices of Building Materials for the three years ending July last gives no information as to whether any prices are unduly high; and whether he will arrange for a further Report giving this important information?
§ Mr. GREENWOODThe terms of reference to the Committee require them to report on prices which appear to be unduly high by reason of the operation of any trade combination, trust or agreement. I have no reason to suppose that the Committee have overlooked this part of their reference. They have reported with regard to it from time to time, and I may, for example, draw attention to the account of the special investigation contained in their Fifth Interim Report, to which reference is made in the Report mentioned by the hon. Member.
Mr. SIMONIs the right hon. Gentle-man aware that the hon. Member for Penryn and Falmouth (Sir T. Walters) stated yesterday that building material prices were ridiculously high; and will he investigate the matter, as it is of the utmost importance if you desire to cheapen the cost of building?
§ Mr. GREENWOODIt is difficult to make an inquiry into a general statement of that kind. If the hon. Member will furnish me with any particular cases I shall be glad to inquire into them.