asked the Minister of Works what action has been taken to safeguard the future supplies of sand and gravel for the building industry.

The reports of the Advisory Committee on Sand and Gravel appointed in June, 1946, are brought to the attention of local planning authorities by my right hon. Friend the Minister of Housing and Local Government. With due regard for other interests the committee have recommended certain areas in each locality for sand and gravel working. The committee believed that the areas recommended would provide reserves for the next 50 years.

asked the Minister of Works the estimated available sand and gravel deposits that can be worked; and how long he estimates they will provide for the needs of the building industry.

No estimate can be made of the total reserves of sand and gravel available but the reports of the Advisory Committee on Sand and Gravel show that in certain areas, notably the Metropolitan area, reserves that can be worked without damage to other interests are likely to be exhausted in less than 50 years. Provision can be made in development plans, which are subject to five-yearly revision, for the progressive allocation of land for the working. of sand and gravel.