HC Deb 20 March 1962 vol 656 c189
12. Sir T. Moore

asked the Minister of Works if he is satisfied that the present deliveries of building materials by manufacturers are adequate to meet the building programme which the Government have in view for the remainder of this year; and if he will make a statement.

Lord John Hope

Yes, Sir. I expect the general level of building activity to be rather higher this year than it was in 1961. The producers of building materials have assured me that they will be able to meet the higher demand, and I have no reason to think that shortages of materials will hold up the building industry.

Sir T. Moore

I thank my right hon. Friend for his informative reply. Will he try to ensure that the demand for building materials generally remains steady and continuous instead of fluctuating periodically, which has happened in the last few years, so that manufacturers may be given the opportunity to plan ahead with confidence?

Lord John Hope

Yes, Sir; that is certainly the Government's policy.

Mr. Manuel

Is the Minister aware of the number of unemployed building trade operatives in Scotland? Is the reason for plenty of materials being available in Scotland the cut-back in municipal housing which is due this year?

Lord John Hope

No, I do not think so. It applies to the whole country.