HC Deb 15 May 1939 vol 347 c991
65. Mr. T. Johnston

asked the Secretary of State for Air whether he has any statement to make regarding the establishment of further aircraft manufacturing facilities in Scotland?

The Secretary of State for Air (Sir Kingsley Wood)

Yes, Sir. I am glad to be able to inform the House that arrangements have been made with Rolls-Royce, Limited, under which they will establish and manage, on behalf of the Air Ministry, a new factory for the production of Rolls-Royce aero-engines in the vicinity of Glasgow. It would not be in the public interest to disclose the capacity of the proposed new factory, but I am glad to say that it will provide a substantial volume of employment.

Mr. Johnston

Will the right hon. Gentleman indicate when it is proposed that operations should begin, and now many men will be employed when the factory is working at full capacity?

Sir K. Wood

It is hoped that the factory will commence production in 12 months' time. The cost of the factory will be several millions of pounds, and the number of men employed will be of the order of 10,000.

Mr. Davidson

Is a Scottish firm engaged in the building of this factory?

Sir K. Wood

As regards the construction of the factory, Scottish firms will be invited to tender and will be given an equal opportunity with other firms of securing contracts.

Mr. A. V. Alexander

Will the right hon. Gentleman communicate to the House at some time the basis of the contract between Rolls-Royce, Limited, and the Air Ministry? I observe that they are rapidly increasing their profits.

Mr. Macquisten

There is no conscientious objection to the erection of that factory going to Scotland.