19.
asked the Secretary of State for Scotland why Mr. W. A. Thain has been refused a licence for timber to complete two bungalows at 20 and 22, West Craigs Avenue, Corstorphine, for the building of which he originally received a licence from the Minister of Works.
As I told the hon. Member on 20th May, Mr. Thain's application was not granted because his houses were not included in the 1947 programme. I have recently found it possible, however, to review a number of outstanding applications, and a timber licence was issued to Mr. Thain on 17th June.
Is not the right hon. Gentleman aware that the same situation is arising everywhere throughout Scotland, and cannot he take steps to ensure that priority is given in relation to the date on which the building licence is granted?
I will certainly look into that. The real difficulty—and I think that is recognised by all hon. Members—is the shortage of supplies, but we are doing everything possible to try to overcome that problem.