§ 54. Mr. Scott-Hopkinsasked the Secretary of State for the Environment whether he will make a statement on his review of the working of Circular 57/69 issued by the former Ministry of Housing; and whether he is satisfied that all local authorities are now placing work with direct labour departments only after seeking competitive tenders.
§ Mr. ChannonLocal authorities in general give new housebuilding work to direct labour organisations only after competition or in continuation of work won in competition. Any exception from this rule normally needs specific Ministerial approval. I am considering whether any further guidance is necessary on this question.