HC Deb 06 July 1938 vol 338 cc375-6
48. Sir H. Croft

asked the Minister for the Co-ordination of Defence whether he can now state what arrangements His Majesty's Government have been able to make for the manufacture in Canada of aircraft and other munitions, either with Canadian manufacturers direct or in cooperation with His Majesty's Government in Canada?

Sir T. lnskip

As regards the production of aircraft in Canada, the Government has under examination the report of the recent Special Mission which was sent to the United States of America and Canada, and made inquiries into this matter. As regards the manufacture of other munitions, orders have been placed in Canada for shell bodies and Bren machine guns, the former direct with the Canadian manufacturer and the latter in association with the Canadian Government. An order for explosives is also under consideration.

Sir H. Croft

Are His Majesty's Government making it clear to all the Dominions that this country is ready to engage in the widest co-operation for collective defence against any form of aggression from the air?

Sir T. Inskip

The Government of the United Kingdom are in constant communication with the Dominions.

Mr. Mander

Can the Minister say whether it is not quite untrue to say that any request by His Majesty's Government here has been refused by the Canadian Government?

Sir T. lnskip

I do not know to what the hon. Gentleman is referring.

Mr. Bellenger

Are the types of munitions for which orders have been placed in Canada similar to the types which are to be supplied to the Turkish Government under the Bill now before the House?

Lieut.-Commander Fletcher

Will any portions of the report of the Special Commission be made available to Members of this House?

Sir T. Inskip

That is a question which should be addressed to my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Air.