§ Mr. Adam Hunterasked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will set up an investigation into the increasing costs of house-building.
§ Mr. RossI am aware of the substantial increase in house building costs during recent years. Between 1959 and 1963 average tender prices for typical three apartment local authority houses rose from £1,374 to £2,008, an increase of some 46 per cent. There was a further increase in average tender prices during the early months of 1964. This rise in prices partly reflects improved standards 231W of design and the provision of better amenities and account must be taken also of wage and price increases generally.
The Government are keeping house building costs under close scrutiny and will not hesitate to commission a further investigation of they should feel it necessary.