§ Mr. Hefferasked the Secretary of State for Prices and Consumer Protection what progress, if any, is being made to keep down the price of new houses; and if he will hold discussions with the building material manufacturers to ensure that prices are held at a reasonable level.
§ Mr. ArmstrongI have been asked to reply.
We are watching closely trends in house prices and maintain regular contact with the building societies through the Joint Advisory Committee. Regular contact is maintained with the building materials industry through the Standing Consultative Committee on Building Materials. The larger manufacturing and service firms must notify the Price Commission of intended price increases.