§ Brigadier Clarkeasked the Minister of Housing and Local Government how much extra he estimates it will cost local authorities this year and in a full year to build council houses considering the 15 per cent. surcharge, the extra stamp duty on National Insurance and the increased duty on hydrocarbon oils.
§ Mr. MellishMy right hon. Friend can make no reliable estimate because it is not possible to say how much of the extra costs will be absorbed by the building industry.