HC Deb 20 September 1948 vol 456 cc486-7
3. Mr. Marples

asked the Minister of Works when the Committee appointed by him on 5th June, 1947, to keep under review the prices of building materials, will be making their recommendations.

Mr. Key

This is a standing Committee which makes recommendations to me from time to time in response to requests for advice.

Mr. Marples

Will the right lion. Gentleman consider publishing those findings in order to ensure a more speedy implementation of whatever recommendations are made?

Mr. Key

I am giving consideration to that matter but I think that on the whole I shall get better and more intimate advice if I do not publish all the reports of this Committee.

Mr. Marples

Will the right hon. Gentleman place some of the reports in the Library?

Mr. Key

I have already said in answer to previous Questions that if there is any information which would be of value I will see that it is published.

4. Mr. Marples

asked the Minister of Works how many Reports on output in the building trade have been published by the Committee of Review which was to be set up under the Working Rule Agreement for building trades operatives in the London District, which was signed on 27th February, 1946; and if he will make copies available in the Library.

Mr. Key

I understand that no Reports have been published by the Committee of Review set up by the National Joint Council for the Building Industry.

Mr. Marples

As the Agreement was signed two and a half years ago, surely some evidence has been collected? In order to assist in reducing building costs, will the right hon. Gentleman approach the Committee and see if he can get their evidence, in order to publish it?

Mr. Key

This is entirely a matter for the building industry itself. I should appreciate any evidence they have to give me, but so far none has come forward.

Mr. Marples

Will the right hon. Gentleman take the initiative and ask for any evidence they have, in order to reduce building costs?