§ 9. Mr. Chichester-Clarkasked the Minister of Public Building and Works what action he is taking to reduce the excessive dependence on imported materials in certain building systems.
§ Mr. PrenticeI am satisfied that there is no excessive dependence on imported materials, but I have impressed on the industry the need to exercise economy in their use. The general question of import saving is also being considered by the E.D.C. for Building.
§ Mr. Chichester-ClarkIn view of the fact that blame is sometimes unjustly fastened on to the building industry for causing a strain on our balance of payments, will the right hon. Gentleman initiate discussions with his colleagues at the Ministry of Housing and Local Government with a view to suggesting that 7 they might abolish their system of 5M, in view of its excessive dependence on timber and the fact that it is not universally aesthetically acceptable?
§ Mr. PrenticeThese matters are being reviewed by all the Government Departments concerned and we are anxious to make import savings where necessary. As for putting restrictions on the use of timber in the systems involved, such restrictions might jeopardise the industrialised parts of the housing programme. Again, other restrictions might be in breach of our agreements with other countries in E.F.T.A. which provide timber for us.