HC Deb 21 March 1945 vol 409 cc799-800
40. Sir P. Hannon

asked the Minister of Works if, following his recent visit to Birmingham, he realises fully the urgency of the Housing problem in all parts of that city; and if he can indicate, in relation to schemes where building material is available, when any of the schemes now under his consideration can be under taken.

Mr. Sandys

Yes, Sir. The experimental building scheme, to which I believe my right hon. Friend refers, will be proceeded with very shortly, as soon as a suitable site can be found.

Sir P. Harmon

Will my right hon. Friend take care, in the case of schemes in Birmingham which have already been prepared and to which thought and time have been given so long, that they will have preferential consideration in the schemes for rebuilding?

Commander Locker-Lampson

If London is the heart of England, is not Birmingham the hands of England and the first place in the provinces?

Mr. Gallacher

Could not Birmingham best get ready for a big housing development by getting rid of its Tory representatives?