HC Deb 21 December 1938 vol 342 c2857
31. Mr. Simmonds

asked the Secretary of State for Air whether he can make any statement with regard to the increase in aircraft production in the British Isles during 1938?

Sir K. Wood

During 1938 the monthly rate of aircraft production has more than doubled and is showing a marked upward trend.

Mr. Simmonds

Can my right hon. Friend assure the House that this greatly improved position will be further improved during 1939?

Sir K. Wood

Yes, Sir. My hon. Friend will remember that I made a statement in this matter in the House a few weeks ago, and I have no doubt that we shall be able to carry out the undertaking I then gave.

Sir A. Sinclair

Can the right hon. Gentleman say whether aircraft production in this country is catching up with aircraft production in Germany?

Sir K. Wood

I cannot answer that.

Mr. Paling

Is it not possible to say something more definite? Is not that the same statement that we had before the last crisis?

Sir K. Wood

No, Sir. I have given a very definite statement this afternoon of the facts within my own knowledge with regard to aircraft production in this country.