HC Deb 10 March 1970 vol 797 c1098
9. Mr. Eyre

asked the Minister of Public Building and Works whether he will make a statement on the present state of trade in the construction industry.

Mr. Loughlin

My right hon. Friend has indicated on several recent occasions that we are concerned about the current state of trade in the industry—mainly on the housebuilding side—and he is considering this situation with his colleagues. We have however noticed that some housebuilders are now pointing to an improvement in the position.

Mr. Eyre

Has not the hon. Gentleman's complacency been further shaken since the censure debate by the recent news that construction orders fell in 1969 by 5 per cent. overall, and even worse, that private housing figures fell by 13 per cent.? Has he been to the Chancellor again to demand some relief for this industry?

Mr. Loughlin

The fact that my right hon. Friend earlier today told the House that he is considering this with his colleagues should be a sufficient answer for the hon. Gentleman.

Mr. Fernyhough

What kind of response has the Minister of Housing had to his letter, particularly to Tory local housing authorities, which are not doing their job and have cut their council house building?

Mr. Loughlin

I cannot answer for my right hon. Friend the Minister of Housing, but I think that the figures will tell their own story.

Mr. Speed

While the Minister is considering this problem, is it not a fact that brick stocks are now at record high levels?

Mr. Loughlin

I will not anticipate a later Question on the Paper.