§ Mr. Fosterasked the Minister of Supply if he is aware of the shortage of building materials in South-West Lancashire, such as rainwater castings, gutters, washing boilers, etc., to enable the necessary repairs to be carried out to housing property in accordance with Circular No. 2871, issued to local authorities by the Minister of Health; and if he will take steps to ease the situation.
§ Sir A. DuncanYes, Sir. There is a general shortage of builders' castings for civilian needs. Much of the labour formerly employed has had to be diverted to direct war work, and a large proportion of existing production has been absorbed in meeting direct war needs. Everything possible is being done to help, but until the shortage of man-power is far less acute full easement of the situation cannot take place.