HC Deb 10 February 1937 vol 320 cc409-10
Mr. Speaker

Notice has been given of a Private Notice Question by the hon. Member for the Fairfield Division of Liverpool (Mr. Brocklebank). It is the general rule of the House that when questions on a particular subject are already on the Order Paper Private Notice Questions cannot be answered on that subject.

There are two questions on the Order Paper similar to this one. On the other hand, I understand that it is very important that a statement should be made on this question, and perhaps the House will be willing to waive the rule on this occasion.

Mr. Brocklebank

(by Private Notice) asked the Under-Secretary of State for Air whether a site in Lancashire has yet been chosen for the factory in place of the White Waltham site?

Sir P. Sassoon

A site at Speke, Liverpool, has been selected, subject to the Corporation of Liverpool approving the terms and conditions which have been provisionally agreed upon in negotiation.

Mr. Kirby

Can the Under-Secretary say when it is expected that the factory will be completed, and how many persons will be employed?

Sir P. Sassoon

The factory will be completed as soon as possible. As far as the number of people likely to be employed is concerned, I should like to have notice of the question.

Mr. Tinker

Can the Under-Secretary say whether any other places in Lancashire have been inspected for the purpose of selecting a site?

Sir P. Sassoon

Yes, at least 23 other sites have been inspected.

Mr. George Griffiths

When the Air Ministry are looking for other sites, will they think about South Yorkshire? So far we have had nothing.