HC Deb 13 July 1931 vol 255 cc21-2
42. Commander BELLAIRS

asked the Minister of Health if he has any information as to the extent foreign timber, foreign-made doors and window frames, were employed in the housing schemes of local authorities in 1930 in the whole or any section of England and Wales?

The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the MINISTRY of HEALTH (Miss Lawrence)

No, Sir.

Commander BELLAIRS

Have we no information at all then upon this point; and is the hon. Lady aware that both the Ministry of Labour and the Ministry of Health have issued "Buy British goods" circulars, and, in the absence of the information, how can they say that that request is being carried out?

Miss LAWRENCE

I cannot add to the very simple answer which I have given to a very simple question.

Mr. HANNON

Is it a fact that the Ministry of Health, knowing the importance of this question to British manufacturers, have no information as to the extent to which foreign materials are being used?

Mr. MARJORIBANKS

Does the Department attempt to get such information; and, if not, is their order in this matter not made entirely nugatory?

Mr. STRAUSS

Would it be possible to find out the extra cost per house involved?

HON. MEMBERS

Order!