HC Deb 29 October 1946 vol 428 cc434-5
20. Mr. Marples

asked the Minister of Works when it is expected that the committee, which was to be formed after the increase in building trade rates was agreed in December, 1945, will report on the progress made to bring the output of the building industry up to 1938 level; and what recommendations have been made by them on the subject of payment by results.

Mr. Tomlinson

I assume that the hon. Member has in mind the National Joint Production Council for the Building Industry which was set up together with its regional committees with the object of securing a higher rate of production. I am informed that regular meetings have been held and in addition production officers have been appointed by the council in consultation with my Ministry who will visit actual sites with the same object.

An incentives committee has also been appointed by the National Joint Production Council, to consider whether it is practicable to devise a system of payment by results which would be suitable for the normal work carried out by the building industry, as distinct from the wartime building programme for which the special payment by results scheme was designed. This committee has held a number of meetings and interviewed many persons including officers of my Department, but I understand that it is not yet in a position to make recommendations.

Mr. Marples

When was the committee appointed, and when is it expected that its report will be published?

Mr. Tomlinson

I do not know exactly, but I think it was about two months ago. I do not know when the report will he ready.

Mr. Marples

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that some of the people on that committee have expressed themselves absolutely hostile to payment by results by means of resolutions before they were appointed?

Mr. Tomlinson

That may be a good reason for putting them on the committee.

Hon. Members

Oh!