§ 97. Major Sir Jocelyn Lucasasked the Minister of Works if he is aware of the continued shortage of building materials in Portsmouth; and what steps he is taking to allocate a larger supply to the locality in view of the serious housing situation there.
§ Mr. WilsonI am fully aware of the position in Portsmouth, which is not sub- 37 stantially different from other blitzed towns, and will continue to make every effort to ensure a supply of materials to work which increases housing accommodation. The allocation of slates and plaster to Portsmouth (amongst other towns) has recently been increased and the position is constantly under review.
§ Sir J. LucasIs the hon. Gentleman aware that in the case of one contract for 52 houses not a single brick can be promised, and the whole scheme is held up, and that slates are entirely unobtainable? Those are materials that cannot be got at all.
§ Mr. WilsonWe have had a full statement of the position in Portsmouth, which has been discussed recently at a meeting with the President of the Portsmouth branch of the Building Trade Employers' Association. We are taking what steps we can to get materials into Portsmouth. The situation is similar to that in other towns.