§ 43. Miss Baconasked the Minister of Works what will be the approximate cost of the block of offices to be built in the Headrow, Leeds, for which a licence has just been issued; how long will it take to complete the building; and how many building workers will be employed.
§ Mr. StokesThe approximate cost of this block of offices is £600,000, of which about one quarter was spent before the war. The licence has not yet been issued. It is estimated that 140 men will be required for two years.
§ Miss BaconDid my right hon. Friend state that this licence has not been issued, because it has already been stated in the Press that such a licence has been granted? Is he further aware of the very great difficulty we are having in Leeds in respect of building and give an assurance that such licences will not be issued while these building difficulties continue?
§ Mr. StokesThere is a confusion of terms. It is true to say that, in principle, it has been agreed that the building shall be completed, but no licence to commence has been issued, and none will be issued until the building situation in Leeds has improved.
§ Mr. ErrollWho will use the building when completed—the Labour Party?
§ Mr. StokesI do not yet know who will occupy it.