HC Deb 17 October 1946 vol 427 c1039
25. Mr. Walker-Smith

asked the Minister of Health what increase, at present rate of output, in the total cost of a local authority house, based on the average of tenders approved in recent months, it is estimated would result from an increase of 6d. an hour in the wages of craftsmen and a proportionate increase in the wages of labourers; and what would be the rent equivalent of such increase.

Mr. Bevan

Approximately £70 and 10½d. per week.

Mr. Walker-Smith

Without wishing in any way to anticipate or prejudge any discussion that may be going on between the two sides of the building industry in regard to this matter—

Mr. Stokes

Oh.

Mr. Walker-Smith

One of these days the hon. Member will realise—

Hon. Members

Speech.

Mr. Walker-Smith

I was going to say, Mr. Speaker, that the hon. Member will realise that the value of his observations is in inverse proportion to the loudness of voice in which they are made. Would the Minister say whether any change of circumstances has happened since last December, when the 4d. rise was agreed to, and was thought to stabilise the position, at any rate for the time being?

Mr. Bevan

If the hon. Member thinks that I intend to make any comment on this application, he is mistaken.

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