HC Deb 16 December 1969 vol 793 cc1118-9
31. Mr. Berry

asked the Minister of Housing and Local Government whether he will now make a statement on his policy regarding the report of the working party set up to formulate a manual of principles for local authorities for carrying out new construction by direct labour.

43. Mr. Silvester

asked the Minister of Housing and Local Government what steps he proposes to take to ensure that the recommendations made in the Ministry of Housing Circular 57/69 are implemented by local authorities.

Mr. Freeson

The Government's policy on the working party report is clearly set out in Circular 57/69. I see no need to take any further steps to bring this advice to the attention of local authorities.

Mr. Berry

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that I welcome the withdrawal of Circular 50/65 which was a grave mistake and which cushioned the direct labour departments of local authorities in such a way that it inevitably led to increased costs, delay and total inefficiency?

Mr. Freeson

I suggest that the hon. Gentleman reads the circular before making that kind of comment. So far from trying to cushion anybody, it is advice on how best to make the most cost-effective use of direct labour alongside other forms of contract work.

Mr. Silvester

However, is it not true that one of the proposals in the circular is that it is possible to have a continuous contract, but that that continuous contract must start on a competitive basis? In view of the previous circular, should not the Minister check that at least one competitive contract has been started under the new arrangement?

Mr. Freeson

I have already indicated that I see no reason to add to the advice clearly given in the circular. I suggest that some hon. Members opposite should try to hide their prejudices about direct labour a little more.