HC Deb 23 November 1966 vol 736 cc337-8W
Mr. Cant

asked the Minister of Public Building and Works what proportion of the surplus stock of 700 million bricks is a consequence of the impact of industrialised building and the shortfall in housebuilding, respectively; and when he will give the brick making industry a realistic target.

Mr. Boyden

The decline in the demand for bricks since 1964 results primarily from the decline in private housing starts. The increase in the use of other cladding materials is a contributory factor. Industrialised building is only now beginning to affect the situation. A realistic target for the brick-making industry is a matter for discussion with the Economic Development Committee for the Building Industry in the light of the course of the planning operation announced by my right hon. Friend the First Secretary of State on 10th November, 1966.—[Vol. 735, c. 341–2.]