HC Deb 16 May 1939 vol 347 cc1167-8
23. Mr. Kirby

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware that the Liverpool City Council has resolved to build and lease a factory to be used by a firm, consisting of refugees, for the manufacture of flush doors; that manufacturers of flush doors in Liverpool, and elsewhere, object to the proposal on the grounds that existing factories are only on half production capable of rapid expansion; and what steps he is taking to see that the facilities granted to these refugees will not adversely affect the production of flush doors in existing factories?

Mr. Stanley

I understand the Liverpool Corporation propose to build a factory which could be used for the manufacture of flush doors under powers conferred on them by the Liverpool Corporation Act, 1936, which enables them to build and lease factories on their Speke estate. In doing this, they are acting in accordance with the powers which Parliament has given them; and it is not open to me to take any action in the matter.

Mr. Kirby

While thanking my right hon. Friend for his reply, and while not wishing to stand in the way of refugees settling in this country, might I ask whether he could take some steps to protect this trade in this country which is suffering severe competition from Canada and the United States, particularly in view of reduction of the tariff from 2s. 6d. to Is. 6d.?

Mr. Petherick

Would my right hon. Friend draw the attention of the Home Secretary to this matter with a view to limiting the refugees who come into this country and displace British labour?

Mr. Stanley

I did not understand that other than British labour is to be employed in this factory.

Mr. Kirby

Is my right hon. Friend aware that, according to the representations of the manufacturing associations, there is ample plant already existing in England which is idle and could be used very much more effectively; in other words, that there is no need for further factories?

Mr. Stanley

There is a certain amount of under-employment in factories of this type, though I am not aware whether all the goods are supposed to be produced by these factories; but, as I say, Parliament gave to the Liverpool Corporation power to take action of this kind and I have no power at all to intervene.