HC Deb 07 May 1946 vol 422 cc76-7W
92. Major J. Morrison

asked the Minister of Works if he is aware that essential house construction and repair is being held up in the South-west of England owing to the shortage of cast iron and asbestos soil pipes, eave gutters and rain -water pipes; and what steps he is taking to remedy this state of affairs.

Mr. Tomlinson:

It is because of the shortage of certain building materials, including those referred to in the Question, that I have recently introduced the Priority Distribution Scheme in order to ensure that the available supplies are used for house construction and other services of national importance. In the meantime my right hon. Friend the Minister of Supply and I are taking all possible steps to increase supplies.

94. Sir C. Edwards

asked the Minister of Works if he is aware of the shortage of slates and other materials required for house repairs in the Risca, Monmouthshire, area, and that many properties are deteriorating because of this shortage; and if he will see that, in addition to providing materials for new houses, he will allow sufficient of what is necessary to keep the present ones habitable.

Mr. Tomlinson:

There is a general shortage of slates and of certain other materials required for house repairs, but special steps have already been taken to make supplies of slates and rainwater goods available in the Risca area. The need to provide some materials for repairs has not been overlooked and, in fact, most of the output of slates is being used for this purpose.