HC Deb 16 July 1963 vol 681 cc27-8W
51. Mr. McInnes

asked the Minister of Public Building and Works how many local authorities have been in touch with his inquiry centre in Glasgow regarding the use of components, manufactured in shipyards, for building purposes.

Mr. Rippon

One. The centre has also been in touch with the Joint Housing Development Group set up by the Scottish Development Department.

52. Mr. Small

asked the Minister of Public Building and Works how many inquiries have been made by shipbuilders to his inquiry centre in Glasgow with regard to the manufacture of building components in shipyards.

Mr. Rippon

Thirteen.

53. Mr. Millan

asked the Minister of Public Building and Works if he will make a statement on the initial response by shipbuilders, the building industry, and potential clients, to his establishment of inquiry centres dealing with the possible use of shipyards for the purpose of manufacturing building components.

Mr. Rippon

There has been a fair response by shipbuilders, especially in Scotland and the North-East. Only a few builders have so far asked to be put in touch with shipyards. I understand that some public bodies are adding shipyards to their lists of tenderers, mainly for specialised components.

Mr. Lawson

asked the Minister of Public Building and Works what staff are employed in his inquiry centre in Glasgow dealing with the use of spare shipbuilding capacity for the manufacture of building components.

Mr. Sharples

One officer is available at all times to deal with inquiries. In addition a senior architect is available for consultation as required on two days a week. A naval architect from the Ministry of Transport is also available for consultation as required.