§ 80. Sir H. Butcherasked the Minister of Housing and Local Government what estimate he has made of the increased cost of building an average size house following the 15 per cent. import surcharge, the additional petrol tax, the increased employers' National Insurance contribution and the increase in Bank Rate.
§ Mr. MellishMy right hon. Friend cannot say how much of the extra costs falling on the suppliers of building materials and components will be absorbed by them; and therefore cannot produce a reliable estimate of the increase in overall building cost.
§ Mr. Arthur Lewisasked the Minister of Housing and Local Government whether he is aware that several local authorities have declared that in view of the high Bank Rate they are having to cease house building and other essential building programmes, and are refusing to lend money to prospective house purchasers; and what action he proposes to take to ensure that all local authorities are able to continue these services.
§ Mr. CrossmanI have nothing to add at present to the reply which I gave on 1st December to a Question by the hon. Member for Down, North (Mr. Currie).