§ 42. Mr. WALTER ROCHasked the Minister of Munitions if he can state the terms on which the Alliance Aeroplane Works of Messrs. Waring and Gillow have been taken over by the Government; if he can state the statutory or other authority under which such works were taken over; and whether it is his intention to take over any other establishments in the same manner and on, the same conditions?
§ Mr. KELLAWAYThe terms on which these works were taken possession of are still under consideration. Possession was taken under Regulation 8 of the Defence of the Realm Regulations. The question of taking similar action in other instances must depend on the facts of each case as it arises.
§ Mr. KELLAWAYI would rather make no statement while the question is under negotiation.
§ Mr. KELLAWAYThat also is a point with regard to which a definite answer cannot be given at the moment.
§ Mr. ROCHIf nothing has been settled, why was it announced that they had been taken over by the Government?
§ Mr. PRINGLEIs it not a fact that this was a controlled establishment before, and has any difference been made by the announcement made by the Minister of Munitions?
§ Mr. KELLAWAYA substantial difference has been made. One result is that the men are now at work.
§ Mr. PRINGLEIs there any difference in the management or control of this establishment, or was the announcement simply made for the purpose of getting the men back to work without making any alteration at all?
§ Mr. KELLAWAYThe details are under consideration, and there will certainly be a difference made in the conditions.
§ Mr. PRINGLEWhen will the hon. Member be able to make a statement as to the change?
§ Mr. KELLAWAYIf my hon. Friend will put down a question, I will endeavour to get the information.