HC Deb 18 March 1941 vol 370 cc17-8
35. Mr. David Adams

asked the Minister of Labour whether he is aware that, resulting from the recent severe snowstorm upon Tyneside, large quantities of cast iron and wooden spouts and gutters have been destroyed, and in the absence of which rapid deterioration of property and serious danger to health has ensued; and whether he will obtain the release of the requisite skilled labour from the Services in order to effect the repairs?

The Joint Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Labour (Mr. Tomlinson)

My right hon. Friend is having inquiries made and will write to the hon. Member, but I have no evidence at present that damage of this character is so serious and extensive as to justify an application for release of men from the Army to effect repairs.

Mr. Adams

Is not the Minister aware that the snowstorms in question were the heaviest in living memory, and that, in Newcastle-upon-Tyne alone, thousands of houses and shops have had their gutters and spouts destroyed, a serious situation thus prevailing?

Mr. Tomlinson

My right hon. Friend is aware of what has taken place, but he is not aware at the moment of the extent and necessity for the release of men.

Mr. Adams

Then he ought to find out.

Mr. Tomlinson

He is doing so.

57. Mr. Adams

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Works and Buildings whether he is aware that resulting from the recent severe snowstorm upon Tyneside, large quantities of cast iron and wooden spouts and gutters have been destroyed, and in the absence of which rapid deterioration of property and serious danger to health has ensued; and whether he will forthwith release to repairers the essential materials required?

Major Sir James Edmondson (Vice-Chamberlain of the Household)

I have been asked to reply. No information has reached the Controller of Building Supplies on the matter, but my Noble Friend has directed inquiries to be made forthwith. There is a shortage of certain building materials, but everything possible will be done to meet these and similar demands.

Mr. Adams

Is the Minister aware that he has not answered the Question on the Order Paper, and that the Newcastle Corporation view with anxiety the very serious situation which prevails there, where thousands of houses are being damaged by the rain?

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