§ Colonel GREIGasked the Secretary for Scotland whether his attention has been drawn to the fact that the corporation of Greenock are concerned as to the decision of the Board of Health for Scotland that the plans for the erection of new houses for the working classes in the burgh should restrict the height of ceilings to 8 ft. 6 ins. in the bottom fiat and to 8 ft. in the upper flats, and that the corporation desire the height should be at least 9 ft. in the bottom flats and 8 ft. 6 ins. in the upper flats; and will he state what action he proposes to take in the matter?
§ Mr. PRATTThe answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. The Scottish Board of Health are satisfied that, from a health point of view, the heights of ceiling proposed by the Board are sufficient, and it is not considered desirable, in view of the extra cost that would be involved, to sanction an increase beyond those heights.
§ Sir A. WILLIAMSONasked the Secretary for Scotland if he is aware that specifications and schedules of quantities required in connection with the building of new houses have been forwarded by the town council of Elgin to the Local Government Board for approval; if these have now been approved and returned to the town council; and whether the time occupied in sanctioning plans prepared by 1346W local authorities under the new scheme can be reduced in order that actual building may be commenced without delay?
§ Mr. PRATTDrafts of the specification and schedules of quantities referred to were returned to the town council on the 31st October with an intimation of approval by the Scottish Board of Health subject to certain amendments. The architectural and surveying staffs of the Board have been further strengthened, and I am assured that plans and specifications submitted by local authorities and public utility societies are being dealt with expeditiously.