HC Deb 04 May 1938 vol 335 cc879-80
69. Mr. Sandys

asked the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster how it is that in spite of the Government's aircraft expansion programme British aircraft manufacturing companies are short of orders, and that many aeronautical engineering works are discharging employés?

70. Mr. Simmonds

asked the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster in what directions it is hoped that the Air Ministry Committee of Supply will improve the preceding organisation?

Earl Winterton

I hope to be in a position to make a comprehensive statement in the near future which will deal among other matters with the points raised by my hon. Friends, but I cannot accept the assumption in the question of my hon. Friend the Member for Norwood (Mr. Sandys). The numbers employed in the aircraft industry have largely and progressively increased.

Mr. Sandys

Is the Noble Lord aware that since I put down this question I have received letters and telegrams from aircraft firms all over the country confirming these facts?

Earl Winterton

I am very surprised to hear that as I am myself in touch with the principal aircraft production firms, and I understand that they have full programmes of work. If the hon. Member will be good enough to let me have the letters and telegrams to which he refers, I will look into them.

Mr. Gallacher

Will the Minister, pending his speech, make the necessary inquiries and do something in order to get back into the trade the skilled workers who have been driven out because of low wages?

Earl Winterton

That is more a matter for the firms themselves. But in any event I cannot accept the assumption in the question.