§ 58. Mr. Huģh Lawsonasked the Minister of Health if the decision of his Department that housing sites over and under five acres are to be undertaken by large and small contractors, respectively, 182 means that it is the Government's intention to prevent local authorities undertaking their housing schemes by direct labour; and will he encourage all local authorities to set up efficient public works departments so that public money is not diverted into the pockets of private individuals in post-war reconstruction schemes.
Miss HorsbruģhThe reply to the first part of the Question is, "No, Sir." As regards the second part, the establishment and maintenance of a public works department by a local authority is a matter for the authority to decide in the first place.
Dr. Russell ThomasIs it not a fact that direct labour is both dilatory and Expensive and not highly noted for its results?