Mr. Sloan asked:

the Secretary of State for Air whether he is aware that many brickworks in Scotland are idle, and if he will give an assurance that English bricks will not be used for Air Ministry work just commencing in Scotland, as bricks of an excellent quality are manufactured at New Cumnock collieries where 30 men are at present idle, and as each 1,000 bricks weighs four tons, which means further strain on the railways and adds additional cost to the various schemes?

Scottish bricks have generally been used in the construction of Royal Air Force buildings in Scotland, but instances may occur where local bricks are either unsuitable or are more expensive than others. For the work which I think the hon. Member has in mind, Scottish bricks will be used.

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that brickworks are idle in many districts in Ayrshire, and that the workers can see bricks passing through on the railways?

We are endeavouring to deal with these matters.

In considering the question of the cost of bricks, may I ask whether the question of petrol and transport is also taken into account?

Yes, Sir.