HC Deb 30 July 1957 vol 574 cc1038-9
5. Mr. Stonehouse

asked the Minister of Works under what United States aid scheme the issue of his Department's Technical Notes No. 2 is financed; the cost of the issue; and what consultation took place with the industries concerned before the Notes were compiled.

Mr. Molson

Technical Notes No. 2 was financed under the United States Mutual Security Act of 1952; the cost of the issue was approximately £250; consultation took place with the manufacturers of the material mainly concerned, with representatives of the building professions and the contracting industry.

Mr. Stonehouse

Is the Minister aware that there is some consternation that these Notes should be issued by his Department with a number of misleading statements in them? Will he ensure that if any notes of this kind are issued in future his Department will consult not only with the industry concerned but also with some of the other industries that are likely to be affected?

Mr. Molson

It would be more helpful if the hon. Member said what was inaccurate in the pamphlet, instead of casting these aspersions upon it. I am sure that we should do all we can to encourage the use of new methods, and I am inclined to think that those who are critical of this pamphlet are those who are concerned to preserve old methods.

Mr. Shinwell

Would it not be a little helpful if we were told what these Technical Notes are all about? Is there any secrecy about this matter?

Mr. Molson

There is no secrecy about it. The right hon. Gentleman is at liberty to buy the pamphlet on any occasion he likes. Should he not wish to do so, I should be happy to place a copy of the pamphlet in the Library where he can consult it without making any payment.