asked the Minister of Production whether he will release building materials to permit the building of houses to relieve the housing situation in Belfast, where there are families forced to live in street shelters and overcrowding detrimental to public health; and whether he is aware that Northern Ireland is in a special position due to unemployment in the building industry and the absence of alternative employment?

My right hon. Friend has asked me to reply. An inquiry has been received from the Northern Ireland Government on this matter and is at present being examined.