§ Sir K. WOODasked the Minister of Health whether the committee on the cost of building materials is still carrying out its duties; and whether he proposes to give any additional powers to the committee?
§ Mr. WHEATLEYThe question whether there should be any extension of the scope and powers of this committee is under consideration; in the meantime the committee is continuing to obtain information as to changes in the prices of materials.
§ Sir K. WOODasked the Minister of Health the price last year and to-day of sheet lead and white lead paint; whether there is any increase in the cost of 2357W housing on this account; and whether he has any evidence that the prices are controlled by any lead combine or ring?
§ Mr. WHEATLEYThe present London prices compared with those in March of last year of sheet lead and white lead paint are as follows, namely:—
The increase in cost of a non-parlour house on account of the rise in cost of lead, including lead pipes, during this period would be approximately £2 17s. There are, in this country, various associations in the lead industry which include amongst their activities the fixing of selling prices. They do not, however, control the price of pig lead which is imported to the extent of about 94 per cent. of its use in this country. The price of pig lead has increased by £8 per ton during the last 12 months.
Sheet lead. White lead paint. Per ton. Per ton. £ s. £ s. March, 1923 … 38 0 80 15 March, 1924 … 47 10 86 10