HC Deb 09 June 1937 vol 324 cc1755-6
46. Mr. Kelly

asked the Minister for the Co-ordination of Defence the countries from which machine tools have been ordered for the factories engaged on munitions for this country?

Sir T. Inskip

Since 1st April, 1936, Government orders for machine tools for the manufacture of munitions have been placed in the following countries:

  • The United Kingdom.
  • The United States of America.
  • Belgium.
  • Czechoslovakia.
  • France.
  • Germany.
  • Holland.
  • Switzerland.
I regret that information is not available as to orders placed by private firms.

Mr. Kelly

Has the right hon. Gentleman assured himself that British tool makers were so busy that they could not engage in the manufacture of the machines which were ordered from other countries?

Sir T. Inskip

Yes, certainly. In some cases the machines were of a very special type, and were not made in this country.

Mr. Thorne

Is the Minister not aware that the edged tools made in this country are the best in the world?

Sir T. Inskip

I have no doubt that is so.

Mr. Thorne

Then why do you not place more orders at home?