§ 51. Mr. Byersasked the Minister of Labour whether he is aware that the Sherborne Urban District Council's housing programme is being seriously retarded for the lack of carpenters; that there are only three to do the work of eight; and what steps he proposes to take to improve the situation immediately.
§ The Minister of Labour (Mr. Isaacs)Yes, Sir, I am aware of this shortage and an additional carpenter has been supplied for the local authority housing contract, bringing the number up to six, including two apprentices. It is also hoped to provide a trainee from a Government training centre in the near future. Every effort will be made to meet the contractors' requirements but there are other demands in the area for local authority housing.