HC Deb 17 July 1934 vol 292 cc924-5
14. Captain ARTHUR EVANS

asked the Financial Secretary to the War Office whether His Majesty's Government propose to give effect to the recommendation of the special industrial commissioner for South Wales to transfer the Arsenal from Woolwich to that area; and if he is aware that either Cardiff or Penarth could pro vide excellent facilities for the establishment of such a munition factory whilst offering a unique position from a defensive point of view?

Mr. HACKING

No decision as to the removal of the Royal Ordnance Factories from Woolwich has been reached but I can assure my hon. and gallant. Friend that all relevant considerations would be taken into account before any such decision was reached.

Captain EVANS

Will the right hon. Gentleman receive a deputation from the Cardiff Corporation and the Penarth Urban District Council on the point in order that those authorities may have an opportunity of laying before him certain definite practical suggestions?

Mr. HACKING

I do not think the time is yet opportune for such a deputation. There is no special inquiry taking place at present. This is a review which naturally takes place at intervals with regard to the vulnerability of War Office establishments in general. There is no special inquiry taking place other than that which takes place in the normal way.

Mr. LAWSON

Is the right hon. Gentleman not aware that in the general opinion the object would be much more quickly achieved if the House of Commons were shifted there?

Mr. HERBERT WILLIAMS

Will the right hon. Gentleman bear in mind all relevant constituencies as well as all relevant circumstances?

Mr. MACQUISTEN

Will the right hon. Gentleman consider the use of Cambeltown in Argyllshire, which has a magnificent harbour and aerodrome?

Captain EVANS

Has the right hon. Gentleman's attention been drawn to the recommendation of the industrial Commissioner for South Wales and, in view of that recommendation, will he give me an assurance that he will receive representations at a later stage?

Mr. HACKING

I have no knowledge of any representations by the Industrial Commissioner for South Wales.

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