§ 28. Mr. Patrick Maitlandasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what suggestions he has received from the Building Materials Committee of the Scottish Council about the increased use of stone in house building, especially by means of standard-sized blocks cut at the quarry, and by designing house types which use stone for load-bearing, to permit the use of cheaper materials for those parts of the building which are free from stress; and what action he is taking thereon.
§ Mr. J. StuartThe Building Materials Committee of the Scottish Council reports direct to the Scottish Council and I have not yet received from the Council any suggestions or recommendations on this subject. When I do I shall give them careful consideration—[HON. MEMBERS: "Hear, hear."] Well, I have not got them yet—in consultation with my right hon. Friend the Minister of Works.
§ Mr. MaitlandYes, but is my right hon. Friend not aware that this question has dragged on for nearly two years, that the Scottish stone industry is now at its last gasp, and that instant action must be taken if it is to be saved from disappearing altogether?
§ Mr. StuartI cannot express a useful or helpful view—[HON. MEMBERS: "Hear, hear."] When hon. Gentlemen opposite have finished, I will complete the sentence. I cannot express a useful or helpful view on a report which I have not yet seen.
§ Mr. ManuelCould the Secretary of State for Scotland explain to the House how he is to apportion time for consideration of all the questions which he has told us he will consider?
§ Mr. StuartI can answer that easily because I have not received the report; to which I have just referred, so it takes no time.