§ 24. Mr. V. Yatesasked the Minister of Works if he is aware that due to the Shortage of bricks in Birmingham one housing project has been held up for six months, and that one builder has had to dismiss half his bricklayers; and what action he proposes to take to remedy this shortage.
§ Lord John HopeI understand that in Birmingham two housing schemes were delayed earlier this year, but that bricks are now available for both.
§ Mr. YatesMay I ask the Minister whether he is aware that a supplier of large quantities of bricks to Birmingham has said that there will be many months' delay? Is he aware that there are two schemes which have had over four months' delay, and will he undertake to see that Birmingham can have a greater degree of security in obtaining the materials necessary to build the houses which it so badly needs?
§ Lord John HopeThese schemes are all right now. I cannot find any evidence of the dismissal of half the bricklayers employed by any firm, and if the hon. Gentleman can let me know about it, I will look into that case again. It is up to those who want bricks to order them in plenty of time, and when that is done, there is very little difficulty.