§ 32. Viscount CURZONasked the Secretary of State for Air how many firms are at present engaged, either wholly or partly, in the construction of aircraft and engines; how many of these have intimated that they will have to close down unless some work can be given to them; and whether he can state what limitations or conditions, if any, are imposed by his Department upon firms engaged upon the construction of aircraft and engines for the Royal Air Force when tested, accepted, or rejected, respectively?
Captain GUESTThe answer to the first question is that 18 firms are engaged in the construction of aircraft; as regards engines, four major firms are engaged in the construction of engines, 1213 whilst four other firms are engaged to a lesser degree; to the second, that, for the reasons stated in my reply to my Noble and gallant Friend on the 6th instant, general representations have been made that the firms referred to may have to close down the departments devoted to such construction unless they receive orders sufficient to keep their staffs employed. In reply to the last part of the question, I am not clear what limitations or conditions my Noble and gallant Friend has in mind, but I shall be pleased to send him copies of the conditions of contract applicable to aircraft and engines ordered by the Air Ministry, if he so desires.
§ Viscount CURZONDo I understand the right hon. Gentleman to say that general representations have been made? Docs that mean from the entire industry, practically?
§ Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHYWhat action is the Air Ministry or the Government taking on those representations? Do they realise the seriousness of this question? Is anything being done?
Captain GUESTThe Ministry is fully aware of the seriousness of the position-If they have not the money they cannot give the orders.
§ Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHYIs this being represented to the Cabinet? If not, my right hon. Friend (Captain Guest) ought to be in the Cabinet.