§ MR. STUART-WORTLEY (Sheffield, Hallam)I beg to ask the Under Secretary of State for War whether tenders have been invited for the construction at Woolwich of a 3,000 ton forging press; whether a press of this size and power is far larger than is necessary for the production of forgings of the size to which the War Office have repeatedly promised the private trade that the production of the Royal Ordnance Factories should be limited; and whether any and what change of policy in that respect is contemplated; and, if not, for what purpose is the 3,000-ton forging press required.
§ MR. WYNDHAMTenders have been invited for a 3,000-ton forging press for erection in the ordnance factories at Woolwich to take the place of the present steam hammer, which is worn out. The press is larger than is necessary for the production of forgings of the size hitherto made in these factories. It is, however, intended to restrict the use of the press in ordinary time to the production of forgings of the size hitherto made; but it is considered necessary to have a reserve of power available in case of emergency.
§ MR. SWIFT MACNEILLWill the authorities consult experts on forging subjects, such as The Times?
§ [No answer was given.]