HC Deb 11 March 1968 vol 760 cc949-50
7 and 8. Mr. G. Campbell

asked the Minister of Public Building and Works (1) what assessment he has made of the increased costs and loss of flexibility to specialist piling contractors which would result from the Transport Bill, and of the effects on the construction of large buildings;

(2) what estimates he has made of the additional costs to the construction industry of the proposals in the Transport Bill.

13. Mr. Costain

asked the Minister of Public Building and Works what estimate he has made of the increased cost to the building and civil engineering industry following the introduction of the Transport Bill; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Mellish

It is too early to estimate the effects of the Transport Bill on the cost of building and civil engineering.

Mr. Campbell

As regards pile driving, does the Minister realise that essential plant will have to pay the abnormal loads tax in advance of any movement by road and that this, and the delays caused by the quantity licensing proposals on journeys over 100 miles, will seriously hold up pile driving and the building operations that will follow? What is he doing to protect the construction industry from the doctrinaire proposals of the Minister of Transport, who could not care a fig for the industry's efficiency?

Mr. Mellish

It is not quite as bad as that. The various sections of the industry have been to see me. I have arranged for ample opportunity to be given to them to take part in discussions on their various problems with the Ministry of Transport and British Rail. Those discussions are still going on, and at the moment they are going rather well.

Mr. Costain

Does the Minister appreciate that this Bill will cause delays on sites, due to the fact that contractors will not be able to use their transport efficiently? Will his Department give an extension of time to contractors who have to suffer delays because of this new monstrosity of legislation?

Mr. Mellish

I recognise that the construction industry has certain problems, and that for many of those engaged in certain parts of its work any form of licensing would be difficult. These points of view have been put to British Railways and the Minister of Transport. I can only repeat that as I understand it relationships at the moment are very good.