HC Deb 27 July 1944 vol 402 c869
52. Sir Irving Albery

asked the Minister of Health if, with reference to permanent and to temporary housing, he retains full responsibility for planning and construction.

Mr. Willink

I cannot usefully add to the statement made on 10th December by my noble Friend the Minister of Reconstruction, of which I am sending my hon. Friend a copy.

Sir I. Albery

As Members are in ignorance as to what the responsibilities of the Minister of Health now are for housing, can he not reply more explicitly to the simple Question on the Paper?

Mr. Willink

The question is not as simple as it might appear. A very careful statement was made on l0th December in another place. My hon. Friend can find a full answer to his Question there.

Sir I. Albery

Is my right hon. and learned Friend aware that, the longer the answer, usually the less the information given?

Sir Herbert Williams

Is it proper to furnish Members of this House with information in another place? Are we not entitled to have it here?

Mr. Speaker

I think a statement made on behalf of the Government in another place can be quoted here. That is the rule.