HC Deb 27 February 1939 vol 344 cc919-20W
Mr. McEntee

asked the Minister of Health what has been the percentage in crease or decrease in the price of building materials, and of building trade workers' wages, from the date of the passing of the Act permitting house-owners to charge 25 per cent. extra on house rent, to the latest date for which figures are available?

Mr. Bernays

Since the Rent Restriction Act of July, 1920, the price of building materials and the wages of labour used in the construction of working-class houses are estimated to have fallen by 40 per cent. and 32 per cent. respectively. Compared, however, with the year of the standard rents, that is 1914, these prices and wages show increases of 62 per cent. and 100 per cent. respectively.

Mr. Jenkins

asked the Minister of Health when he intends to publish the reports of the Price of Building Materials Committee?

Mr. Bernays

My right hon. Friend has received a report by the Inter-Departmental Committee on the Prices of Building Materials which is at present receiving his consideration.