HC Deb 20 December 1944 vol 406 cc1768-9
40. Mr. Astor

asked the Minister of Works whether he will take steps to study the methods used by the American troops who are engaged in demolition and repair in London; and in all respects where these methods prove speedier than our own will he take steps to have them adopted.

Mr. Sandys

In this matter as in so many others, we and our American Allies are pooling our knowledge and experience.

Mr. Evelyn Walkden

Will the Minister again examine this question? Is it not unfair to suggest that the Americans are teaching our workers anything? They have the best tackle possible, but they are not plastering houses or putting in windows, which is essential to Londoners.

Mr. Sandys

I think they are all getting on very well together, and I regret any attempt to make invidious comparisons.

Mr. Astor

Without making any invidious comparisons is there any truth in the suggestion that we are short of mechanical equipment, as the right hon. Gentleman's predecessor assured me at that Box that we had all we needed?

Mr. Sandys

So far as I know, there is no shortage of mechanical equipment. I have had no complaints from local authorities that there is a shortage of such equipment — excavators, mechanical shovels and so forth. But one must use this heavy equipment sparingly. It cannot be used on every type of job, otherwise we run the risk of destroying valuable material which could otherwise be salvaged.

Mr. Walkden

What local authorities have equipment like that of the Americans?

Sir H. Williams

Is it proper for an hon. Member to suggest that a Peer gave an assurance from that Box?

42. Captain Gammans

asked the Minister of Works if he will make a statement on the progress of the repair of bomb-damage in the Greater London area.

Mr. Sandys

I have nothing of a general character to add to the statements I made on 7th and 15th December. However, in view of the public interest in this question, I propose to publish at monthly intervals detailed figures showing the progress made.

Captain Gammans

Can the Minister say when his first monthly return will come out as to whether we are getting on with this work up to schedule? Are we making the progress he anticipated?

Mr. Sandys

The first statement will be issued to-day.

43. Captain Gammans

asked the Minister of Works if any decision has yet been reached regarding the employment of German prisoners on the repair of bomb-damage and the clearance of bombed sites in preparation for rebuilding.

Mr. Sandys

Bomb damage repairs have to be carried out by small groups of men working in private houses. This is, therefore, not a suitable task for German prisoners. The clearance of bombed sites is a different matter. Italian prisoners are being employed on this work. If necessary the use of Germans will be considered.