asked the Minister of Health whether he is aware of the slow progress in the erection of houses in the Wetherby Rural District area and, particularly, at East Keswick; how far the delay is due to a shortage of materials; and what steps he proposes to take to ensure that contractors and subcontractors are provided at an accelerated rate with the items a shortage of which is delaying the completion of the houses.

Yes. The delay is due mainly to shortage of labour, and not to any appreciable extent to shortages of materials. My regional officers take action on any difficulties reported to them by the local authority.

Is the Minister aware that my information is that much of this delay is on account of shortage of materials, and will he have further inquiries made, as the progress of house building is very slow?

My information is that the delay is due to a shortage of labour, not to shortage of materials, but if the hon. and gallant Gentleman will give me particulars, I will have them investigated.

Cannot the right hon. Gentleman get these particulars himself?

There is a complete conflict of evidence as to what the facts are, and I am quite satisfied that my investigations have shown that the hon. and gallant Gentleman is wrong.