HC Deb 08 July 1969 vol 786 cc242-3W
Mr. William Hamilton

asked the Minister of Public Building and Works if he will make a further statement on the shortage of bricks in Central Scotland; and what steps are now being taken to alleviate the problem following his consultations on this matter.

Mr. John Silkin

Production is slightly up and there has been some success in meeting vacancies in the brick works. My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Employment and Productivity is examining proposals for improvement in the wages structure and I hope that this may result in greater stability in the long term. Meanwhile I would expect imports from England and a wider distribution of Scottish bricks to minimise shortages in most areas.