HC Deb 06 February 1951 vol 483 cc1522-3
37. Mr. Emrys Hughes

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland why, in recent months, house building in Ayrshire has been delayed by shortages of timber, cement, copper, plaster boards and water pipes; and what steps he is taking to meet this situation.

Mr. McNeil

I have no knowledge that there was any general hold-up. of building progress in Ayrshire last year, but I would be glad if my hon. Friend would give me details of the specific instances he has in mind. Whenever and wherever shortages are disclosed I attempt, along with the Production Department concerned, to repair the deficiencies on the affected site.

Mr. Hughes

Has not my right hon. Friend received a letter from the Ayr County Council saying that the timber shortage is worse than it was in 1950, and can he give an assurance that these deficiencies will be remedied in the near future?

Mr. McNeil

I have a letter from the Ayr County Council referring to one particular matter but now I am asked about a general hold-up, and I repeat that I have no information about a general hold-up.

Mr. Manuel

Is my right hon. Friend aware that, on receipt of a letter from the county clerk, I took the matter up with the Scottish Office over a fortnight ago and listed all the materials mentioned in my hon. Friend's Question, showing that there was a complete shortage and that practically every housing scheme in Ayrshire was being held up?

Mr. McNeil

The letter from the county council referred to a shortage of timber. I am, in addition, investigating a letter from my hon. Friend.