HC Deb 08 November 1945 vol 415 cc1577-8W
Mr. Christopher Shawcross

asked the Minister of Health whether he is satisfied that the number of building operatives likely to be demobilised from His Majesty's Forces by 1st December and 28th February next, respectively, will be adequate to meet all demands for the repair of existing dwellings and the building of new houses.

Mr. Bevan

No, Sir. Considering the needs, it would be most difficult to satisfy me on this.

Sir W. Wakefield

asked the Minister of Health how many building operatives had been placed at the disposal of St. Marylebone Borough Council, for the repair of damaged houses, on 1st August, 1st September, 1st October and 1st November, respectively

Mr. Bevan

Available labour returns show the head of labour actually at work on Friday of each week. The figures for the Friday nearest the dates mentioned are 361, 343, 391 and 298 respectively.

Wing-Commander Robinson

asked the Minister of Works the number of operatives employed in the building industry on VE-Day, VJ-Day and 1st November, 1945.

Mr. Wilson

Precise figures for the number of operatives employed in the building industry on VE-Day and VJ-Day are not available, but the estimated number at the beginning of May, 1945, was 374,000, and at the middle of August, 1945, 410,000. A figure forthe beginning of November will not be available for two or three weeks, but I will communicate it to the hon. and gallant Member.