HC Deb 22 August 1945 vol 413 cc604-5
68. Sir W. Smithers

asked the Minister of Works what is the additional cost per house involved in transporting the concrete houses now being made at Messrs. Caxton Floors factory at Greenhithe to Castle Bromwich.

Mr. Tomlinson

The pre-cast concrete units required for the Tarran temporary house are made by a number of sub-contractors of whom Messrs. Caxton Floors at Greenhithe are one. The cost per house of transporting the units from Greenhithe to the Distribution Centre at Castle Bromwich is about £11 greater than from the nearest sub-contractor. The employment of the firm is necessary to implement the programme.

Sir W. Smithers

Is it not the height of folly to send prefabricated houses from Gravesend to Castle Bromwich when they could all be used within ten or 15 miles of the site in a very badly blitzed area, which contains my division?

Mr. Tomlinson

I understand that the hon. Member has a Question down for to-morrow incorporating that sentiment. As it is impossible to answer together a Question down for to-day and another for to-morrow, I propose, with permission, to answer his Question to-morrow.

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