HC Deb 05 May 1959 vol 605 cc212-3
35. Mr. Janner

asked the Minister of Works whether he is aware that the multiplicity of architectural research organisations which exist in this country make for confusion and expense in building; and whether he will consider setting up a department as is done in Holland and Sweden for the purpose of sifting and classifying technical information and presenting it in a standard form for easy filing.

The Minister of Works (Mr. Hugh Molson)

The Government have for some time felt that there was room for improvement in the co-ordination of building research. It therefore decided that all research should be under the D. S. I. R As recently announced, I shall not, therefore, re-appoint my Advisory Council on Building Research and Development. In its place there will be a Standing Conference on Building Research, which will be under the aegis of the Lord President of the Council.

The dissemination of technical information will continue to be my responsibility. I am discussing with the industry the many problems involved.

Mr. Janner

While thanking the Minister for that reply, may I ask if he is satisfied that the new set-up will provide facilities for architects quickly to obtain available information so as to cut down the expense on building, and provide more efficient buildings?

Mr. Molson

That is exactly what I am at present discussing with those concerned in the building industry—architects, builders and quantity surveyors.