asked the Minister of Public Building and Works how many applications for authorisation of building projects have been refused in respect of shortage of materials and because of regional manpower difficulties.

asked the Minister of Public Building and Works how many applications for authorisation of private building projects are now outstanding with his Department.

asked the Minister of Public Building and Works how many applications for authorisation of private building projects have been refused consent by his Department; and how many have been granted.

asked the Minister of Public Building and Works whether, for the guidance of the industry, he will make a statement about the number, type and geographical situation of applications for authorisation of private building projects which have been granted, refused, and are under consideration, respectively.

252 authorisations have been granted and 17 refused. 62 are under consideration With permission, I will circulate a statement giving details in the OFFICIAL REPORT.

Does the hon. Gentleman hope to have the force of law for the licensing procedure?

That is hardly a matter for me. We will act expeditiously when it comes up.

Because of the severe restriction on the output of the building industry, is it not the case that output of houses in 1966 is 5,000 down on the comparable period of 1965?

We will wait until the end of the year. The restriction is not severe. When the hon. Gentleman sees the figures, he will realise that a considerable amount has been licensed.

Does not the hon. Gentleman think, in view of the strictures by the right hon. Member for Leeds, West (Mr. C. Pannell) about the effects of the tax on the building industry, that the Government might as well withdraw the Building Control Bill altogether?

No, Sir—and that is another question anyway.