asked the Minister of Works what has been the average time taken for the erection of temporary houses, including the time required for the preparation of the site.

From the beginning of site preparation to the occupation of the house, the average time taken has been about nine months. The period is being reduced as the rate of supply of certain items improves.

Can the right hon. Gentleman say how this time compares with the estimate originally given?

No, I cannot.

Can the right hon. Gentleman say what period is involved when the sites are prepared and no work is going on, before building commences?

In that period of nine months that I have given, about three months.