§ 17. Mr. David Adamsasked the Minister of Health how many houses in the scheme for building 3,000 houses for agricultural workers have been allocated to the county of Durham?
§ Mr. E. Brown36, Sir.
§ 19. Mr. David Adamsasked the Minister of Health whether full consideration has been given for securing maximum amenities of domestic lighting, space, heating, cooking and hot water supply in the 3,000 cottages being provided for agricultural workers?
§ Mr. BrownYes, Sir. I would refer my hon. Friend to the statement which I made in the Debate in this House on 4th May, in which I explained that the plans had been drawn up after the fullest and most detailed consideration of all the factors which he mentions.
45. Mr. De la Bèreasked the Prime Minister whether, in connection with the proposed erection of 3,000 cottages for agricultural workers, he will take steps to ensure the co-ordination of the four Departments concerned, namely, the Ministries of Agriculture, Health, Labour and Works, with special reference as regards the Ministry of Works to the adaptation and use of flying squads who could provide the necessary labour, transport and material-in those localities where the work was held up for lack of these?
§ The Deputy Prime Minister (Mr. Attlee)As regards the first part of the Question, I would refer my hon. Friend to the answer which my right hon. Friend the Prime Minister gave him on 18th March last. As regards the last part, all necessary steps will taken, within the limits of existing supplies, to meet the need for labour and materials wherever there is any fear that work might be held up.
Mr. De la BèreIs it not a fact that so many Departments are concerned that there is no one man With power to see the whole matter through? Is not the matter being unnecessarily delayed? 282 Would my right hon. Friend consider appointing Lord Beaverbrook, because he has ability in that direction and it might keep him out of mischief?
§ Mr. BossomHave any of the cottages yet been started?
§ Mr. AttleeAny question with regard to the details should be put to the Minister concerned.
§ Mr. David AdamsWhen does the right hon. Gentleman expect that some of these cottages will be erected?
§ Mr. AttleePerhaps my hon. Friend will put that Question to the Minister of Health.