HC Deb 02 December 1937 vol 329 cc2237-8
50. Lieut.-Commander Fletcher

asked the Prime Minister whether, in view of the urgency of the matter, especially as affecting home Defence, he will approach the chairman of the Royal Commission inquiring into the location of industry with a view to an interim report being issued as soon as possible?

The Prime Minister

I have been in communication with the chairman. The Royal Commission is proceeding as expeditiously as possible, but it still has much evidence to hear, and has not yet reached a point at which it can decide whether an interim report would be practicable.

Lieut.-Commander Fletcher

Could some powers be taken in this matter of the location of industry, pending the report of the Commission, as irreparable harm may be done in matters of national defence before the issue of the report?

The Prime Minister

It is not possible to ask for any powers until we hear what the Commission recommend.