§ Sir F. Sandersonasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Works and Buildings whether he is aware that extensive damage is being caused to stone copings, steps and brickwork in the borough of Ealing and in other parts of the country by the removal of, iron railings and gates owing to the compulsory order for the requisitioning of unnecessary railings; that much of the debris is left by the contractors working for the Ministry on public footpaths, constituting a danger to the public; and will he issue instructions to all contractors responsible for the removal of railings, etc., to the effect that the greatest possible care be exercised to minimise damage to property, to repair any damage sustained and to clear away all broken masonry and debris?
§ Mr. HicksI fear that some incidental damage to property is inevitable, but every precaution is being and will be taken by my Department to minimise this risk. Contractors are under obligation to make good damage due to negligence and to leave the sites clear of debris.