asked the First Commissioner of Works whether he is satisfied, in connection with all the large-scale building now in progress in the Westminster area, that the stability of our national memorials and public edifices is not impaired?

I am not aware of any large-scale building work in progress in the Westminster area that is likely to impair the stability of any national monument or public edifice.

asked the Minister of Labour whether he has considered the recommendations of the London and Manchester trade councils, and sent to him, in favour of cleansing rivers in industrial areas as a means of providing employment; and whether, in view of the benefit such a programme would give to towns like Wigan and Halifax, he will take steps to give effect to the idea?

I have received a copy of the letter in question. In so far as these schemes are advocated as relief works, I would remind my hon. and gallant Friend that, as has been stated on more than one occasion, the Government are satisfied that the policy of providing employment by means of relief works is undesirable and ineffective for the purpose in view.