HC Deb 11 March 1968 vol 760 cc959-60
29. Mr. Peyton

asked the Minister of Public Building and Works what studies he has made of the level of output of building workers directly employed by public bodies; and what have been the findings of those studies.

Mr. Mellish

None, Sir.

Mr. Peyton

That is a disappointing reply. Will not the right hon. Gentleman take some account of all the evidence that direct labour is the most incompetent and inefficient way of doing any job? Will he, in his own Department, set a good example to local authorities which are inclined to put Socialism well before common sense?

Mr. Mellish

It is a little prejudiced of the hon. Gentleman to condemn all directly employed labour: such a sweeping statement is not fair. He will know that many local authorities which have directly employed labour departments—some of them under Conservative control—are doing a first-class job. The hon. Gentleman must not make such sweeping statements.

Mr. Costain

On that reply, has not the right hon. Gentleman ignored the findings of the Mann Committee? Was that not set up with some of these objects in view? Why does he say that no studies have been made?

Mr. Mellish

Because the Question asked for the level of output, whereas the Committee inquired into the best way of carrying out maintenance. They are two different things.

Mr. Peyton

On a point of order. In view of the unsatisfactory nature of that reply, I beg to give notice that I will raise the matter again.