§ Mr. Rhys Daviesasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Works why, when he is denuding railings and small gates from around houses, churches and other buildings, he is not removing the considerable quantity of steel girders in Fountain Street, Manchester, which have been standing there for some years in preparation for extending the premises of Messrs. Lewis, the general providers?
§ Mr. HicksI assume that my hon. Friend is referring to the completely erected steel frame of a seven storey building. My Minister's policy is, if possible, to avoid taking such structures for scrap. The labour which has been expended on them can be turned to good account when the buildings are completed after the war and make their contribution to the rehabilitation of trade and industry.