§ 49. Sir W. Smithersasked the Prime Minister if he will take the necessary steps to hold up the development of the Cultural Centre and work on the clearance of the site for the Festival of Britain until the shortage of houses for the people has been overcome.
§ The Prime MinisterNo, Sir.
§ Sir W. SmithersHowever important the Cultural Centre and the Festival of Britain may be, are not homes for our people more important? Will not this construction be used as a further excuse for not carrying out the Government's housing programme and policy?
§ The Prime MinisterWith regards to the first part of the supplementary question, housing is, of course, immensely important. With regard to the second part of that question, I am advised that this will not interfere with the housing programme.