HC Deb 22 March 1945 vol 409 cc986-7
58. Mr. Sorensen

asked the Minister of Health if he will give comparative figures on the average inclusive cost, time taken in man-hours and number of men employed in the construction and completion of Nissen type and other temporary houses; and the number of each type now occupied or available in the London and Greater London area.

Mr. Willink

I assume that my hon. Friend refers to emergency hutments. which are of two types, uni-seco and curved asbestos. The average cost, including erection, is £490 for the uni-seco and £380 for the curved asbestos. The number of man-hours varies considerably and ranges from 650 to 1,200. The total number of men employed in the erection of these hutments on 14th March was 2,401. 2,000 uni-seco and 3,900 curved asbestos huts have been allocated to local authorities who have asked for them. 962 of the uni-seco and 184 of the curved asbestos are already occupied, and a further 216 uni-seco and 260 curved asbestos are completed, and about to be occupied.

Mr. Sorensen

Is any kind of advice or recommendation given to the local authorities as to the best types of huts?

Mr. Willink

These were the two types available, on this small scale, for this emergency purpose. The extent to which they should be used is discussed with the local authority by officers of the London Repairs Executive.

Mr. Sorensen

Why does the hut take twice as long to erect in one case as it does in the other?

Mr. Willink

The sites vary very greatly.

Mr. Craven-Ellis

Does the cost which the Minister has given include road making, sites and sewerage?

Mr. Willink

That question really falls within the jurisdiction of my right hon. Friend the Minister of Works, and should be put to him.

Mr. Sorensen

Can I have the inclusive cost?

Mr. Willink

There is a difference between the two types; one is more expensive than the other.