HC Deb 17 May 1944 vol 400 cc184-5
69. Mr. Granville

asked the Minister of Health the total cost of the cottages erected at Cratfield, Suffolk, and the item for the transportation of labour to and from this building site; and whether drinking water is available there.

Miss Horsbrugh

The contractors' final accounts have not yet been received by the local authority, but it is estimated that the total cost of the four cottages will be approximately £4,720, of which £376 will be for the transport of labour. A common supply of drinking water is available for the village as a whole, including the cottages in question.

Mr. Granville

How is it that this high cost of transportation of labour comes into these tenders? How are we to expect agricultural workers to afford the rent if transport is to cost £300 or £400?

Miss Horsbrugh

This is a matter for the Ministry of Labour. The labour had to be conveyed daily from Ipswich, which is 26 miles away. The costs were: Travelling time, £141; overtime, £61; and designated craftsmen, £10. These are all extra to the contract price.

Mr. Granville

Would not better results be obtained if small local builders were allowed to contract?

Miss Horsbrugh

That question should be referred to the Ministry of Labour.