§ 2. Mr. R. W. Elliottasked the Minister of Works whether he will make a statement about Sir Harold Emmerson's recently published Report on problems before the construction industries.
§ Lord John HopeI should first like to thank Sir Harold Emmerson for his very valuable Report which he made at my request. The Government are in broad agreement with its recommendations, and I hope that the various sections of the construction industries will be able to make further advances in the directions which Sir Harold indicates.
I propose to appoint a Committee on the placing and management of contracts, and, in consultation with my right hon. Friend, the Secretary of State for Scotland, an associated working party to report on the different systems and practices in operation in Scotland.
I am also setting up an inter-Departmental committee to enable Government Departments and public authorities to use their influence as clients of the industry to improve economy and efficiency by standardisation and in other ways as mentioned in Part 10 of the Report.
§ Mr. ElliottI thank my noble Friend for his statement and I congratulate him on initiating this Report. Will he take particular note that on page 6 of the Report it is stated that the National Council of Building Materials Producers will welcome stronger support from his Ministry in dealing with its problems, and will he take note also of the suggestion in the recommendations that the setting up of a technical information service by architects, surveyors and builders should have immediate Government support?
§ Lord John HopeYes, Sir, to both those questions.