HC Deb 05 May 1919 vol 115 cc583-4
48. Lieutenant - Colonel LOWTHER

asked the Prime Minister whether he is in a position to lay upon the Table of the House any records of the factories, works, mines, concessions, businesses, and contracts obtained since the Armistice by American contractors and concessionaires, outside their own country, but more particularly in Europe; and, if not, whether he will at once appoint a committee to examine the whole subject?

Mr. HARMSWORTH

The Department of Overseas Trade (Development and Intelligence) watches with great interest all developments of American and other foreign business in countries abroad, but no complete records of the nature indi- cated in the hon. and gallant Member's question can be laid upon the Table. I am, however, calling for detailed reports on the subject.

Lieutenant-Colonel LOWTHER

Will the Government consider the advisability of establishing a Works Committee to consider the best ways and means for securing to British enterprise and British labour a fair share of the mammoth reconstruction works necessitated by the War.

Mr. HARMSWORTH

I will gladly submit that suggestion to the proper authority.

Mr. KENNEDY JONES

Will the hon. Gentleman at the same time submit the suggestion that in order to secure a proper share of that trade we ought immediately to appoint some one besides the President of the Board of Trade in order to see that we get it?

Mr. HARMSWORTH

I think that question ought to be addressed to the Leader of the House.

Lieutenant-Colonel LOWTHER

Will the hon. Gentleman really look into the matter at once as it is one of great importance?