§ 22. Mr. WILLIAM YOUNGasked the Minister of Munitions whether he is aware that it was arranged more than two months ago that certain firms in the Perth district, having the necessary machines, should make a certain number of trench-mortar shells weekly, and that since the arrangements were concluded to start work the size of the shells to be made has been twice altered; and seeing that the work is again delayed by further alterations being proposed, whether he will see that, in future, such firms with whom arrangements have been made, and who are anxious to assist the Government, are not discouraged by such procedure as that in the transactions referred to.
§ Mr. LLOYD GEORGEI do not think that it is in the public interest to discuss details of the arrangements made for the supply of particular munitions in particular districts, but I may say generally that I cannot admit the accuracy of the statements in the question. I shall be glad to 1981 give further information to the hon. Member privately if he will communicate with me.
§ Mr. YOUNGDoes it not occur to the right hon. Gentleman that it is a very serious matter and most unbusinesslike in a Department delaying to make up its mind as to what is really required, and is the right hon. Gentleman aware that similar complaints have emanated from various places, both in England and Scotland?
§ Mr. LLOYD GEORGEIf those complaints are similarly inaccurate to that of—
§ Mr. LLOYD GEORGEThe answer to the question is that the statement is inaccurate.