HC Deb 12 December 1944 vol 406 cc1074-5W
Sir R. Tasker

asked the Minister of Health what is the number of builders who have ceased business since September, 1939; due to deprivation of labour and material; and what is the number of men who were employed by building firms in London who have been instructed to proceed to the provinces to engage in building operations.

Mr. Bevin

I have been asked to reply. I regret that the information is not available.

Sir R. Tasker

asked the Minister of Health what is the area of walling erected to protect pedestrians where premises had been demolished by enemy action; and why were new bricks used when old bricks were available.

Mr. H. Morrison

I have been asked to reply. I regret it is not possible to give the statistics asked for of the low brick walls (3 ft. 6 ins. high with 9 inch piers at 7 ft. centres) erected in London round sites for the protection of pedestrians. I have no knowledge of any general neglect of the instruction that these walls are to be built of salvaged bricks; but, if my hon. Friend will let me have details of any particular cases in which new bricks have been used, I will have inquiries made.