§ 24. Mr. Emrys Hughesasked the Secretary of State for Scotland to what extent housing in Scotland is being delayed by the shortage of pipes needed for water supplies.
§ Mr. J. StuartI am not aware of any appreciable delay in housing on account of the shortage of water pipes. If the hon. Member will, however, let me have particulars of any such delays I shall be happy to look into them.
§ Mr. HughesIs the Minister not aware that the Minister of Works recently made a speech in which he said that water pipes were one of the greatest bottlenecks, and that this was giving him a considerable headache? Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that local authorities in Ayrshire are greatly disturbed when they are told that water pipes have been delayed because of the re-armament programme?
§ Mr. StuartI did not mean to say that there was an abundance, but I am not aware of delay in getting on with schemes. Where there have been definite shortages reported I am glad to say that the Departmet have been able to arrange for assistance from other authorities who happen to have supplies available.