§ 13. Mr. William Shepherdasked the Minister of Works what percentage of increase in output has been obtained as a consequence of the rise in pay to building trade operatives.
§ Mr. TomlinsonThe rise in pay to building trade operatives is only one of a number of factors affecting the rate of output in this period of transition from war conditions, and I am unable to say precisely what effect it has had as yet. I should add that the two sides of the industry have set up a national joint production council with the object of securing a higher rate of production.
§ Mr. Walker-SmithWhile I appreciate the difficulties of the Government in giving a precise answer, will the Minister say whether under these conditions the estimate of "one operative, one house, one year" still holds good or not?
§ Mr. TomlinsonThat is the rough figure on which we have been working, but in the light of improvements it is expected that changes of formula will be necessary.