§ Mr. Sharpasked the Minister of Works whether there is any appreciable evidence that, since 1938, the average builder engaged in the housing programme has substantially increased his use of mechanical appliances and labour-saving devices; whether any failure in this respect is due 172W to the madequate supply of such appliances; and what action he has taken to stimulate their production.
§ Mr. KeyThe use of mechanical appliances and labour saving devices has increased since 1938, though not to a substantial extent. There is, however, evidence of increasing interest on the part of builders and contractors in the possibilities of further mechanisation. One of the main difficulties is the design and production of appliances which can be used on an economic basis by the small and medium sized builder, and my Department is engaged in the development and testing of new appliances and in bringing satisfactory designs to the attention of all concerned.