§ 61. Mr. Bossomasked the Minister of Supply whether his Department has made an estimate of the total number of bathtubs required in the first year after the passing of the Housing (Temporary Accommodation) Bill, for installation in permanent, emergency and repaired houses; and how long will it take to reconvert the average plant formerly making bathtubs which has been diverted to the manufacture of munitions during the war.
§ Sir A. DuncanMy Noble Friend the Minister of Works has furnished me with a provisional estimate of the number of baths required. It is estimated that the plants formerly making baths can be reconverted within three months.
§ Mr. BossomWould my right hon. Friend answer my Question, whether he has an estimate of the total number that will be required?
§ Sir A. DuncanI have said that my right hon. Friend the Minister of Works has provided me with an estimate.
§ Mr. BossomWill my right hon. Friend furnish it to the House?
§ Sir A. DuncanThat is a question which should be put to the Minister of Works.
§ Sir Irving AlberyWill my right hon. Friend give an assurance that he will be able to supply the number of baths required?
§ Sir A. DuncanYes, Sir; I said in reply to a Question last week, that we were taking steps to ensure that the necessary labour and capacity would be available.
§ Mr. BuchananIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that in this industry there is a marked shortage of high skilled labouru, and will he see that skilled labour is returned to the industry?
§ Sir A. DuncanYes, Sir. There is a marked shortage of high skilled labour. The capacity is there and at the moment has not been manned, and we are taking active steps with the Ministry of Labour to meet the position.