HC Deb 25 April 1966 vol 727 cc334-5
10. Mr. Gresham Cooke

asked the Minister of Public Building and Works what representations he has received from the National Federation of Building Trades Employers regarding the current state of trade in the building industry; and what reply he has sent.

Mr. Prentice

None, Sir.

Mr. Gresham Cooke

Has the Minister read the statement of the National Federation that medium and small firms are suffering intensely in this time of restriction? Why is it the policy of Her Majesty's Government to drive small and medium firms to the wall?

Mr. Prentice

I think that the last part of the hon. Member's supplementary question was a gross exaggeration. In any case, we are expecting demand to increase rapidly in the next few months. I have, of course, read the recent report of the National Federation of Building Trades Employers and will be seeing representatives of that organisation and others in the industry to discuss the matter in the very near future.

Mr. Chichester-Clark

But does not that same statement seem to suggest that the rather modest targets in the National Plan for building and housing will not be attained? Will the Minister take an early opportunity to make a statement to the House?

Mr. Prentice

I think that to refer to the National Plan is looking at a rather longer term prospect. Of course, it is a challenge to the industry and everyone concerned, including my Ministry, to increase efficiency and productivity to meet those targets. These are the kind of matters on which I hope to have talks with representatives in the industry very soon.