HC Deb 30 May 1946 vol 423 c1355
78. Mr. Lavers

asked the Minister of Health whether he has finally decided which types of prefabricated or partly prefabricated permanent houses are to be built; what contracts have been placed or are contemplated; and with whom have contracts been placed.

Mr. Key

Local authorities may submit proposals for building any type of permanent prefabricated house and their proposals are considered on merits, provided that they are technically sound and the costs are reasonable. Special steps are being taken to ensure that two types of these houses are available in large numbers, the B.I.S.F. house for urban areas and the Airey house for rural areas. Negotiations are proceeding to extend these arrangements to other types of houses which are now going into production.

As a rule, contracts are placed by local authorities with contractors or with the sponsors, and local authorities have already arranged for the building of houses on the Orlit, Easiform, Cussins, Wates, Hitchins, Leeds and Steane systems. A small contract for' Howard houses was placed by the Government with Messrs. John Howard Ltd. and the Government are arranging with manufacturers for the production of certain components of the Airey Rural house.

Mr. Bossom

Would the Minister say whether the latest type of Maycrete house is approved?

Mr. Key

So far as my information goes, not yet.