§ 42. Mr. Gallacherasked the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster whether he is aware that in the opinion of the aircraft shop stewards at the Fairey works the damage done to engines is largely due to large-scale dilution and the introduction of unskilled labour into the industry; and whether he will make inquiries as to the reasons why the management has refused to allow accredited representatives of the men to examine the actual damage that has been done?
§ The Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster (Earl Winterton)I am not aware that such an opinion has been expressed by the shop stewards at the Stockport factory, and I would remind the hon. Member that the damage to the "Battle" aircraft in question was definitely caused by malicious action. As regards the last part of the question, I am in communication with the firm in this matter.
§ Mr. KirkwoodIs the right hon. Gentleman not aware that there is a serious situation arising at these works, that the shop stewards are convinced that the engineering trade, particularly in the turning section, is being over-diluted, and that this is a menace to the whole industry? Will he make inquiries along those lines, in order to try and give satisfaction to the shop stewards who are discontented?
§ Earl WintertonNo, Sir. I am afraid I cannot accept that. As I understand it, the purpose of the original question was to suggest that this damage was done by unskilled labour. It is definitely malicious damage. Therefore, the question of skilled or unskilled labour does not come into the picture. As to the last part of the question, I have already said that I am in communication with the firm on the matter.
§ Mr. KirkwoodIf the right hon. Gentleman will read the question, he will see that it distinctly states that the shop stewards are of opinion that the damage done to the engines is largely due to large-scale dilution. That is the whole crux of the question, and as a result there is discontent abroad.
§ Earl WintertonI understand the question perfectly. It is suggested that the damage is done through unskilled labour. I say that it is malicious damage.
§ Mr. BuchananIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that, in view of the effect of all these statements that are going abroad, all men employed by this firm are to some extent under suspicion; and will he take early steps to make a statement clearing at least all people who are innocent?
§ Earl WintertonIt is impossible to clear everybody until you know who is responsible. I have already given a promise to the House, and I am in communication with the firm in question. It is impossible to make a statement of the kind suggested by the hon. Gentleman until we know who is guilty.
§ Mr. RadfordCould the boring of holes through petrol tanks be owing to dilution?
§ Mr. E. SmithWill the right hon. Gentleman be prepared to consider the need for representatives of the work-people being included among those in charge of any investigation which is going to take place?
§ Earl WintertonWhat I said was that I was in communication with the firm on the point referred to in the question. I have not the slightest doubt that the firm are taking this into consideration, and are getting into communication with the accredited representatives of the work-people.
§ Mr. BurkeWill the right hon. Gentleman take into consideration the standard of efficiency at the head of the Department and the head of the firm also?
§ Earl WintertonThe House must not assume that the Air Ministry has complete control in this matter. It can only make representations. I am in entire sympathy with the view expressed opposite, that every step should be taken to ascertain the cause.
§ Mr. MaxtonDoes the right hon. Gentleman refuse the specific request in the question, that accredited representatives of the men shall be allowed to see the actual damage?
§ Earl WintertonThat is a matter on which I must communicate with the firm before I can give a definite answer. Most probably they are in communication with the accredited representatives of the men.
§ Mr. KirkwoodArising from that——
§ Mr. Speaker rose——