§ Mr. KIRKWOODasked the Secretary of State for Scotland how many State-aided houses were under construction in May, 1933, and the number of unemployed building workers in that period; the number of State-aided houses under construction in January, 1934, and the number of unemployed building workers in that period; and if he will explain why there has been such a large reduction in the output of houses and an increase in the number of unemployed building workers?
§ Sir G. COLLINSAt 31st May, 1933, the number of State-aided houses under construction in Scotland was 23,505, and at 31st January, 1934, 18,694. In comparing the months of May and January regard has to be paid to the difference in the climatic conditions. As regards the last part of the question, it is not the case that there has been a reduction in the output of houses. The number of State-aided houses completed in Scotland during 1933 was 20,915, which is the highest number erected in any year since1280W 1919, and for January, 1934, the number completed was 1,195 compared with 860 in January, 1933. So far as unemployment in the building industry is concerned, the hon. Member should address a question to my right hon. Friend the Minister of Labour.