§ 71. Mr. Cooperasked the Minister of Works from what sources the 324,000 building-trade operatives, recently engaged on non-priority work and maintenance of houses, obtained their supplies of building materials.
§ Mr. TomlinsonThe supply of certain materials is sufficient to enable manufacturers and merchants to meet other demands after the requirements of priority work have been met.
§ Mr. CooperIn view of the fact that nearly one-third of the available building labour is being diverted to non-priority 749 work, does this mean that the W.B.A. priority scheme is failing adequately to operate, and, if so, will my right hon. Friend give consideration to the suggestions which have been put before him for improving the system of control?
§ Mr. TomlinsonWe are always considering the possibility of improving the system of control. It does not mean that the W.B.A. scheme is not working because the work is not priority. Non-priority work may also be regarded as essential.
§ Mr. PiratinCan the Minister say whether it is true that people who receive W.B.A. priorities are able to obtain goods against them from more than one source?
§ Mr. TomlinsonNot without some dodging.