HC Deb 15 November 1955 vol 546 c171
5. Mr. Hunter

asked the Minister of Works the approximate total value of office building now under construction in this country.

Mr. Birch

It is estimated that some £35-£40 million will be spent on new office building work in Great Britain in 1955.

Mr. Hunter

Does the right hon. Gentleman not agree that such large expenditure on speculative office building is using up scarce building and electrical materials which should be used for building houses, flats, schools and hospitals?

Mr. Birch

I think the hon. Member should bear in mind that office workers have to have some building in which to work, and in London, where most of this building is taking place, we are simply replacing war damage.