§ 17. Mr. Laversasked the Minister of Health whether he is satisfied that the supply of materials necessary for the completion of permanent houses in the North-East are available; and what materials, if any, are retarding or likely to retard progress.
§ Mr. BevanNo, Sir. I am not satisfied with this. Instructions to local authorities about the main shortages of materials and advising them of the alternatives which can be used will be issued within the next few days, and I will send my hon. Friend a copy. I would also refer him to the statement made by my right hon. Friend, the Minister of Works, in this House on Monday.
§ Mr. LaversWhilst I appreciate the reply of the Minister, may I ask if he is aware that within the last week the Houghton-le-Spring Urban District Council, among others on the North-East coast, have reported a serious shortage in bricks, sand and gravel, and as a consequence are proposing to come to a Northern group of M.P.s to make representations?
§ Mr. BevanI appreciate the difficulties that may exist in this area, but I hardly believe that at the moment housing is brought to a standstill because of that. I will, however, certainly make immediate inquiries to see whether we can have materials sent there.
§ Mr. LaversWould the Minister be prepared to receive a deputation from the local authorities?