HC Deb 18 March 1947 vol 435 cc174-5
20. Mr. Willis

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will state the principles which governed the 1947 allocation of houses to be built by local authorities in Scotland.

The Joint Under-Secretary of State for Scotland (Mr. Buchanan)

The aim is to concentrate available resources of labour and materials, particularly materials in short supply, on certain houses in order to secure the completion of as great a number as possible in 1947. The estimates of the numbers of houses likely to be completed in particular areas were based on a study of the labour resources in each area and the present stage of construction of each authority's schemes. Apart from this, local authorities have been asked to carry forward the construction of other houses in their schemes to the maximum extent that the supply of materials permits.

Mr. Thornton-Kemsley

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that the effect of this decision of the Government will mean that only about one-quarter of the remaining houses which have already been started in the counties will be completed in 1947, and if he is aware of that, does he not agree that it is a scandal?

Mr. Buchanan

I have looked at it. Hon. Members opposite pressed me to try to fix a number to complete, and after viewing the position I did what they asked, and they are still grumbling. I fixed this number, having regard to the materials and labour available, and to fix a higher number would be to mislead the people. I would sooner go out of office than do that.

Mr. Willis

Is my hon. Friend aware that some local authorities expect to complete their allocation several months before the end of the year, and will he give us an assurance that the building labour will not be unemployed during that latter period?

Mr. Buchanan

I fixed this with a view to getting the maximum number of houses finished and without showing favour to one authority more than to another, but treating them all equitably. If one authority finishes earlier and if the labour is available, we will allow it to be used to the fullest extent.

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