§ Mr. Horobinasked the Minister of Works whether he has completed his review of the statutory control of the rates of hire of building and civil engineering plant; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. EcclesYes. I have consulted the principal organisation of users and hirers of contractors' plant. The present maximum rates laid down in the Order would have had to be raised to cover increased costs of repairs, maintenance, overhauls and depreciation. The trade association concerned has given me an assurance that it will recommend its members not to charge rates in excess of amended figures incorporating only certain actual increased costs and to maintain those rates during 1952 unless there are further increases in costs. On the basis of this assurance I have decided to remove the control as from 1st August, 1952, and will shortly make an Order giving effect to this decision.