§ 60. Mr. A. M. SAMUELasked the Minister of Health whether he will request the National Physical Laboratory and the Building Research Station to embark upon an investigation with the specific object of enabling them to advise on their own initiative local authorities as to how such authorities can advantageously eliminate rules and practices from existing building regulations which do not take into adequate consideration 2156 modern improvements in building materials and methods, and are consequently hindering employment in the building and co-operant trades?
§ The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the MINISTRY of HEALTH (Miss Lawrence)As was stated in answer to the hon. Member's question of 3rd instant, the question which he raises is in London for the London County Council. Elsewhere the bylaws referred to have been in recent years subjected to a process of reconsideration with reference to modern improvements in building materials and methods, and I may add that the Building Research Station is engaged on continuous and systematic investigation into building materials and structure.
§ Mr. SAMUELWould it not be reasonable to ask the National Physical Laboratory to examine the London Building Acts and to report upon those provisions which are not obsolete?
§ Miss LAWRENCEIn London the procedure has been governed by special Acts, and it is necessary for the London County Council to bring forward a Bill in Parliament. Obviously, therefore, it is for the London County Council to approach the National Physical Laboratory, if necessary.
§ Mr. SAMUELIs it not the case that, as the London County Council is not bringing forward such a Bill, building operations are being held up and much unemployment is being caused?