§ 8. Mr. P. Williamsasked the Minister of Public Building and Works how many industrialised building systems are being used; and how many local authorities employ such systems.
§ The Minister of Public Building and Works (Mr. Geoffrey Rippon)I regret that this information is not available in the form requested. I understand that more than 300 industrialised building systems have been or are being developed in this country. In 1962–63 some 45 of these were in use by local authorities.
§ Mr. WilliamsCan my right hon. Friend give an undertaking that the increasing use of these industrialised building systems, which most people would welcome, will not in any way jeopardise the employment of those engaged in traditional building methods? Will he go further and welcome the introduction of these new systems?
§ Mr. RipponI certainly welcome the introduction of these new systems, which 851 we are doing all we can to promote. I can also give an assurance that we do not believe they will interfere in any way with other building work which is being carried on by traditional methods. There is need for both