HC Deb 06 March 1967 vol 742 c1027
10. Mr. Chichester-Clark

asked the Minister of Public Building and Works whether he will institute discussions with representatives of the architectural profession to bring about a release of public architectural commissions in advance of future reflation of the economy.

Mr. Prentice

No, Sir. Public authorities phase the placing of their commissions in accordance with the programmes authorised from time to time.

Mr. Chichester-Clark

Would the Minister agree that the suggestion about bringing future public work at least to a stage of working drawings would have the merit that it would prevent first-class design teams from being broken up and might be a considerable help? After all, is there not to be some reflation around 1969 and 1970?

Mr. Prentice

Work in the public sector, both in housing and other programmes, has been on a steadily rising curve and therefore I am not sure that the hon. Gentleman's question is strictly relevant.