§ Mr. Bossomasked the Minister of Housing and Local Government whether he is aware that the existing system used by certain local authorities and others of holding back both monthly and final payments on building work may add anything up to approximately 3 per cent. on the total cost without gaining any benefit, as the same result can be covered by an appropriate bond; and if he will circularise local authorities urging prompt payment in all cases.
§ Mr. H. MacmillanI am sending my hon. Friend a copy of a circular issued to local authorities last year which made suggestions for the reduction of retention money and stressed the need for prompt payment.