HC Deb 05 March 1946 vol 420 cc153-4
3. Mr. Ward

asked the Minister of Works why two officials of his Department were sent 30 miles by motor car from Birmingham to inspect a farmhouse near Bridgnorth on 21st February; and what was the result of these investigations.

The Minister of Works (Mr. Tomlin-son)

Information was received by the Ministry from a private source that extensive building work had been carried out at a dwelling-house near Bridgnorth, and, in accordance with the usual practice, a building inspector was instructed to make inquiries. He did not make a special journey solely for this purpose but carried out other business en route. The officer with him was a newly appointed building inspector under training. The result of the investigation was not such as to suggest any need for further action

Mr. Ward

Is the Minister aware that the whole of this abortive effort was based on an article in "Harper's Bazaar ' and does he not agree that it would be wiser to check his facts more carefully before embarking on a wild goose chase of this sort?

Mr. Tomlinson

I do not know any better method of checking up than that of sending someone to see.