HC Deb 18 October 1945 vol 414 c1537W
Mr. Maude

asked the Minister of Health what would be the increase in costs, assuming output at the present rates and a total cost per house based on the average of tenders approved by him in recent months for municipal houses, of an increase of wages of 4d. per hour for craftsmen with a proportional increase for labourers; and what would be the rent equivalent of such an increased cost.

Mr. Bevan

It is not possible on the information available to make a precise statement, but it is estimated that the increase in costs would be between £40 and £60 per house; the amounts required to repay these sums over the normal period of 60 years at the appropriate Public Works Loan Board rate of interest, viz. 3⅛ per cent., would be 7d. and 10d. respectively per week.