asked the Minister of Works why the Costain Hostel, Manor Lane, near Chester, is to be closed; what arrangements he is making to rehouse the 240 men living there; and, since lodgings are difficult to obtain in this area, and, in view of the hardship that will be caused, if he will reconsider his decision and keep the hostel open.

asked the Minister of Works what alternative accommodation has been offered to the men due to be displaced from the Costain Hostel, Manor Lane, Sealand.

As I stated on 25th March, in reply to a Question by the hon. Member for Liverpool, Exchange (Mrs. Braddock), the small number of men employed at Capenhurst who now use this hostel accommodation does not justify the retention of this hostel which has a capacity of 850. The contractors concerned have been asked to assist the men to obtain suitable alternative accommodation.