MATERIALS FOR HOUSING

Press, Volume LXXXII, Issue 24895, 7 June 1946, Page 5

MATERIALS FOR HOUSING

NEW ZEALAND “ SCOURING THE WORLD” (P.A.) WELLINGTON, June 6. “We are scouring the world for housing supplies,” said the Director of Housing (Mr G. W. Albertson), referring to the lack of sufficient plaster, which is slowing down the programme of both State and private housing. "Shipping to bring certain materials here is the problem, but we expect that a vessel carrying 1700 tons of gypsum will reach Auckland to-day. This will go straight into the works at Auckland, but it will be some time before the plaster becomes available, and will be sufficient for only four weeks.”

Mr Albertson confirmed reports that certain plywood timber was being con.sidered as a substitute for plaster. Every possible step was being taken, he said, to avoid delay in the housing programme. "This is our worst year, he said. "Once we are through it I believe things will improve rapidly. Meanwhile, the problem boils down to one of shipping, both external and internal.”

Mr Albertson said Australia was the source from which plaster supplies were procured when available, but inquiries had also been made in Britain and America. The British people had difficulty in supplying their own plaster needs. Cement also continued to present a serious problem. The Coal Controller was trying to divert as much coal as possible to the cement works, but it was a difficult job. The timber situation would improve as soon as the winter was over.