HC Deb 28 April 1953 vol 514 cc1954-5
44. Mr. J. Johnson

asked the Minister of Works if he is aware of the shortage of bricks in the Rugby district; and what steps he is taking to overcome this.

The Minister of Works (Mr. David Eccles)

No complaints of shortage of bricks in the Rugby district have been received by my Department.

Mr. Johnson

If the Minister would talk to any town councillor or even to any master builder, he would find that there is at least six months' delay at the moment in supplying bricks; cannot he do something about that now that I have told him?

Mr. Eccles

If any town councillor or builder will bring his complaint to me, I will look into it.

46. Major Anstruther-Gray

asked the Minister of Works what complaints he has received from Scotland of shortage of cement during the last month; and what steps he has taken.

Mr. Eccles

I have received only one complaint, referring to a temporary shortage in South-West Scotland. The position has been remedied.

Major Anstruther-Gray

May we take it from that reply that this matter is no longer giving cause for anxiety?

Mr. Eccles

Not at the moment. Scotland has done very well, having had 35 per cent. more cement this year than in the corresponding period last year.

Mr. D. Griffiths

Is my right hon. Friend not aware that there is an acute shortage of building materials and cement in the Rotherham and district area?

Mr. Eccles

Yorkshire is another question. I am aware that there is some difficulty there, and I have asked the cement makers to increase their deliveries.