HC Deb 22 March 1944 vol 398 cc855-6
50. Sir Ralph Glyn

asked the Minister of Supply what is the percentage increase in transport and insurance costs on timber from Canada, required for building purposes in the United Kingdom, above 1939 prices; and, under the licences issued by the Timber Control for requisite quanti- ties, what proportion of the timber required is being shipped.

Sir A. Duncan

It is estimated that, taking a typical timber building specification, the increase in insurance costs and costs of transport to this country from Canada is about 330 per cent. as compared with the Spring of 1939. As regards the second part of the Question, timber is not as a rule imported for specific needs, but in arranging the total shipping programme requirements for building purposes are of course borne in mind.

Sir R. Glyn

Can the right hon. Gentleman say whether this large increase can alone account for the percentage increase in the cost of timber for houses, and if so, what steps can be taken to reduce these charges which add so much to the problems of housing?

Sir A. Duncan

That must very much depend on the course of events immediately after the war.