HC Deb 18 February 1924 vol 169 cc1303-4
48. Captain Viscount EDNAM

asked the Prime Minister if he can now state whether it is his intention to adopt the shipbuilding programme of the late Government; and whether he is aware of the inconvenience being caused to shipbuilders and naval contractors, as well as the anxiety about further unemployment caused to their workers, pending a. statement of policy on this subject?

The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the ADMIRALTY (Mr. Ammon)

I have been asked to reply. I hope that it will shortly be possible to make the announcement referred to in my reply of 13th February to the hon. Member for Barrow-in-Furness.

Mr. D. G. SOMERVILLE

In view of the terrible unemployment in Barrow and on the Clyde, can no definite date be fixed for this announcement?

Mr. AMMON

We are hastening forward this business as fast as we can, in order to be able to give an early reply.

Mr. SOMERVILLE

Arising out of that reply, which is very kind, may I say that we want some definite date on a matter of so much importance?

Mr. PRINGLE

Will the Admiralty have regard to the revival of mercantile shipbuilding in coming to a decision?

Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY

Is it intended to start these vessels before the House has had an opportunity of discussing the question?

Viscount EDNAM

Is the hon. Gentleman not aware that the country is under the impression that the Prime Minister took office mainly to tackle the unemployment question? He has been in office two months, and has so far made no concrete statement as to his policy. The reply given to the hon. Member for Barrow (Mr. Somerville) dealt with unemployed relief policy.

Mr. AMMON

All the factors raised today are being taken into consideration.

Lieut. - Commander KENWORTHY

Will the House be permitted to discuss this matter before anything is done?