HC Deb 23 May 1938 vol 336 cc852-3
67. Mr. David Adams

asked the Secretary of State for Air whether he is aware that German shipyards, despite the fact that they are working at higher pressure than shipyards in Great Britain, are also making substantial quantities of aeroplane parts; and whether he is prepared to consider the possibility of aeroplane parts being manufactured in British shipyards?

Captain Balfour

As regards the first part of the question, I understand that some aircraft factories in Germany are operated by shipbuilding firms, but I have no information which supports the belief that the machinery and equipment of shipyards are being used for the manufacture of aeroplane parts for which purpose they would in general be quite unsuitable. As regards the second part of the question, the hon. Member will probably be aware that some measures have been taken and are already in operation to associate shipbuilding firms with some of the large aircraft manufacturers engaged in the air expansion programme.

Mr. Adams

If I send the Minister some information on the lines of my question, will he be prepared to look at it?

Captain Balfour

I shall be very glad to do so, but such information as I have is that the linking up between aircraft manufacturers and shipyards in Germany is an administrative rather than a manufacturing one.