HC Deb 16 November 1938 vol 341 cc867-8
63. Mr. Garro Jones

asked the Secretary of State for Air on what date was authority given to Lord Nuffield to erect a factory for the production of super-marine "Spitfire" aircraft; on what date the site of the new factory was ready to commence building; on what date the building commenced; and on what date the building of the factory is expected to be finished?

Sir K. Wood

The answer to the first part of the question is 23rd May, 1938. With regard to the second and third parts, the selected site was ready for the commencement of the preliminary work of drainage and excavation on 15th July and the work was begun that day. The erection of steel work has now commenced. With regard to the fourth part of the question, I am advised that the whole of the factory is expected to be completed in August next but part of the factory will be available for production, I hope, in February next.

Mr. Garro Jones

Does the right hon. Gentleman think it satisfactory that a period of four months should have passed before they began to erect the steel work upon the site?

Sir K. Wood

I hope the hon. Gentleman will appreciate the fact that a great deal of preliminary work had to he done, and I would suggest to him that in fact a great deal of expedition has been shown by Lord Nuffield in this matter.