HC Deb 12 November 1969 vol 791 c391
21. Mr. Mawby

asked the Minister of Public Building and Works what proposals he has for a commodity identification system to enable builders' merchants to create a computer-based system for its members.

Mr. John Silkin

I have arranged for an examination to be made of proposals for a commodity identification system serving the needs of the whole construction industry, including builders' and plumbers' merchants, and expect to receive recommendations by the end of this year.

Mr. Mawby

I congratulate the Minister on that reply, but I draw his attention to the fact that he said not long ago that this could save between 10 and 20 per cent. of designers' time? Will he say how his Department is to reduce the number of statistical inquiries which it sends out to the industry, which occupied 167 man-days in one firm last year?

Mr. Silkin

When the report is available we shall all be much wiser and more understanding.