§ 45. Lieut.-Colonel JACKSONasked the Prime Minister if it has been decided to construct locomotives at Woolwich Arsenal; and if the locomotives constructed there are for use on railways in this country or whether it is the intention of the Government to enter into competition with private firms manufacturing locomotives in this country for orders in the various markets of the world?
§ THE PRIME MINISTER (Mr. Lloyd George)Perhaps I may be permitted to thank hon. Members for their courtesy in allowing me to postpone my questions until to-day, owing to the presence of the Allied representatives here last week.
An order to construct 100 locomotives was placed on 24th November at Woolwich Arsenal. The locomotives ordered are for use on railways in this country.
§ Mr. W. THORNEIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that he made a statement last Monday night to a delegation stating that there was a shortage of boilermakers, and that it was stated yesterday by one of the Members for Glasgow that there were 100 boilermakers there who would come to Woolwich Arsenal to-morrow?
§ THE PRIME MINISTERI am very glad to hear it, because that is one of the difficulties.
§ Mr. SHORTIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that there is no plant at the Arsenal for the construction of these locomotives?
§ THE PRIME MINISTERI am fully aware that it will be necessary to add some, at any rate, in order to make the plant effective for the purpose.