§ Dr. Twinnasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what delays are being experienced at his Department's leaflet distribution unit, Canons park; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. NewtonEmergency repairs to the unit's plumbing system began in January this year and are continuing. The main corridor has had to be torn up, thus severely restricting access to the storage areas. The unit is reduced to working with no mechanical aids, such as a fork-lift truck. Additional effects include the loss of heating, hot water and drinking water.
Every effort has been made to reorganise the work, but it has not been possible to avoid an increase in the time taken to fulfil orders, at present about six weeks.
Before this situation arose, plans were in hand to transfer the unit to new and improved accommodation at Wembley; the move is likely to take place in the summer.
I should like to record my appreciation to the staff at Canons park who have continued to work at the unit despite the many personal inconveniences resulting from the repairs.