88. Mr. J. E. B. Hillasked the Minister of Public Building and Works whether he is aware that there is a shortage of agricultural field drainage pipes; and what action he is taking to avoid an interruption to land drainage schemes.
§ Mr. C. PannellYes; the shortage is largely due to an increase in the amount of drainage work undertaken during the favourable weather this autumn, coinciding with the heavy demand for bricks, which to a large extent are made at the same works and draw on a common pool of labour. The manufacturers are increasing their capacity for the future.