HC Deb 04 November 1948 vol 457 c1022
32. Mr. Stanley Prescott

asked the Minister of Health if he is aware that of 20 houses sanctioned to be erected at Feniscowles, only six have been completed; that the biggest hold-up is due to the shortage of plasterers; and what steps he is taking to remedy this position.

Mr. Bevan

Yes, Sir. Progress on this housing scheme has been slow, but the contractor has only recently notified the local employment exchange of his need for more plasterers. The Ministry of Labour are arranging to recruit two men, and the contractor hopes to transfer two others from a housing contract which is nearing completion.

Mr. Prescott

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the shortage of plasterers is not limited to this site, but is a general shortage throughout the whole of Lancashire, and is he taking steps to remedy the position throughout the whole of the North of England?

Mr. Bevan

I have not heard that that is the case, but I will certainly make inquiries.