49. Mr. David Adamsasked the Prime Minister whether he is aware that, in view of the intense social dislocation that may be expected at the close of this war, he would, even now, do well to set up a qualified body to draw up a scheme of government, local government and industrial action and to make it as complete as possible; and whether such action towards a Ministry of Reconstruction has yet received his favourable consideration?
§ Mr. AttleeAs regards the possibility of setting up a Ministry of Reconstruction, I cannot add anything to the reply which I gave on 6th August to my hon. Friend the Member for Southampton (Mr. Craven-Ellis). So far as the larger questions involved are concerned, the importance of these is fully realised, and active steps are being taken by the Government to give them the fullest consideration.
Mr. AdamsIs there a possibility of some report or public statement being made upon the subject by the Prime Minister or the Government?
§ Mr. AttleeNot immediately. These matters w ill require a great deal of consideration, and the Government are very heavily pressed at the present time by the immediate exigencies.
§ Sir Francis FremantleDoes the right hon. Gentleman realise that many of the steps which are being taken, or should be taken regarding shelters, demolition and so on have great bearing on the future planning and really require present consideration to see whether they cannot be usefully worked in?
§ Mr. AttleeThat is one of the matters which will be kept closely in mind—that is to say, repercussions on the future of steps which have to be taken now.
§ Mr. ThorneAre any arrangements being made for the reconstruction of houses that are demolished, and do the Government intend to pay any kind of insurance?
§ Mr. AttleeI must have notice of that Question and perhaps the hon. Member will put it on the Order Paper.