§ 1. Mr. William Shepherdasked the Minister of Works what is now the average factory cost of temporary prefabricated houses; and the average cost of the work on the site.
§ The Minister of Works (Mr. Tomlinson)The average ex-works cost of the factory-produced temporary houses, including the aluminium houses, is approximately £690. This figure includes fixtures and fittings. The site work and erection is carried out under competitive tender and it is not in the public interest at this stage of the programme to publish the average cost at which it has been possible to have this work carried out.
§ Mr. ShepherdWill the Minister say what is the average cost of the aluminium house as distinct from the other types and why he cannot publish these figures, of which the House should be informed?
§ Mr. TomlinsonI could not give the first immediately, and I cannot publish the second at this stage because new contracts and tenders are being accepted for the remainder.
Mr. Quintin HoģģWhat possible advantage can there be in concealing from the public the average cost, as distinct from individual tenders?
§ Mr. TomlinsonI am not asked the individual cost.