HC Deb 18 June 1968 vol 766 cc888-9
12. Sir G. Nabarro

asked the Minister of Housing and Local Government how many flats in multi-storey buildings are at present under construction; how many more are authorised and awaiting commencement, in design similar to the Canning Town block where disaster occurred, in May, 1968; what changes in policy he proposes pending publication of the report of the public inquiry; and whether he will make a statement.

Mr. Greenwood

At 30th April, 1968, 64,142 dwellings in multi-storey buildings of all types were under construction for local authorities and new towns in England and Wales. At the same date, 6,525 dwellings in multi-storey buildings in systems using large precast concrete load bearing panels were approved but not started. Of these, 29 dwellings were to be built by the system of construction used in the Canning Town block. I have asked the Chairman to pass on to me anything emerging in the course of the inquiry that indicates a need for interim action.

Sir G. Nabarro

How long does the right hon. Gentleman expect that it will be before the report on the Canning Town disaster is available for us to read? If it is likely to be any substantial length of time, is it wise for these constructions to proceed unimpeded all over the country when they are of the same design as the Canning Town block?

Mr. Greenwood

I said in my reply that 29 dwellings were to be built by the system of construction used in the Canning Town block. Mr. Griffiths, the Chairman of the Tribunal, has not been able to give a date for the completion of his work, although he knows my view; that I would like to see the report as quickly as possible, consistent with a thorough investigation of the problem. The hon. Gentleman will appreciate the importance of my not saying anything at this stage which might appear to prejudge the findings of the Tribunal or might be likely to cause alarm in cases where alarm is probably uncalled for.

Mr. Chichester-Clark

While recognising the deep concern that exists over this matter, is it not important for us to keep a sense of proportion and recognise that industrial building on the high-rise plan has been going on successfully for more than 20 years in this country, in Europe and elsewhere?

Mr. Greenwood

I am obliged to the hon. Gentleman for that comment.

21. Mr. Winnick

asked the Minister of Housing and Local Government if he will now review the policy of encouraging local authorities to build very high blocks of flats.

Mr. Greenwood

I have not encouraged local authorities to build high flats. Indeed, they were asked on the contrary in Circular 36/67 to re-appraise their policies for housing densities and layouts where these appeared to demand a high proportion of high rise dwellings.

Mr. Winnick

While appreciating the difficulties of many local authorities, would it be possible for the Ministry to lay down a provision that before loan sanction is granted for particular schemes certain playing facilities for very young children should be included in all tall blocks of flats?

Mr. Greenwood

This is a problem which is under review by the sociologists in my Ministry, and I hope to be able to issue guidance to local authorities, probably later this year.