§ 61. Mr. SOPERasked the Minister of Health whether his attention has been called to the increase in the price of bricks; and whether any steps can be taken to prevent it?
§ The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the MINISTRY of HEALTH (Mr. Shakespeare)My right hon. Friend's 201 attention has been called to some increases in the price of certain sorts. He understands that a recent increase of demand has interfered in places with the ordinary adjustment of supply to demand.
§ Mr. MANDERIs it not the policy of the Government to raise the price of everything?
§ Mr. SHAKESPEAREWe have already made inquiries and are watching the position very closely. At present we are satisfied that the slight hardening is due to economic forces.
§ Mr. H. WILLIAMSIs it due to the improvement in the building trade?
§ Mr. SHAKESPEAREThat is certainly one reason.