HC Deb 07 August 1940 vol 364 cc186-7
16. Mr. Stokes

asked the Secretary of State for Air the number and approximate value of wooden piles driven into the bogland at Abbotsinch before the site was abandoned as a repair depot?

Sir A. Sinclair

One thousand and eighteen composite piles, partly concrete and partly timber, were driven in to form foundations for the repair depot at Abbotsinch. The value of the timber was approximately £9,600.

20. Mr. Stokes

asked the Secretary of State for Air whether he is aware that the Town Clerk of the Paisley Town Council warned the Air Ministry officials of the unsatisfactory nature of the ground at Abbotsinch for the purpose for which it was required; that in spite of that warning the officials insisted on proceeding with the project; that in consequence, nearly £500,000 of public money was wasted; and whether he will cause a full inquiry to be made into the matter so that the persons responsible may be brought to book?

Sir A. Sinclair

No, Sir. There is no record in my Department of the receipt of any communication from the Town Clerk of the Paisley Town Council such as is referred to by the hon. Member. With regard to the remainder of the Question, I have nothing to add to the full statement I made during the Debate on the hon. Member's Motion on the Adjournment on 16th July last.

Mr. Stokes

Is the right hon. Baronet aware that an official of his Department consulted the Town Clerk of Paisley, who has stated categorically, in writing, that he advised against the purchase of the land, and in view of that fact, is it not paramount that investigations should be made?

Sir A. Sinclair

There is no record in my Department of any such statement having been made by the Town Clerk. I gather from what the hon. Member says now that it was made somewhere else than in a communication to my Department.

Mr. Gallacher

Is not the right hon. Baronet aware that a representative of the Paisley Town Council has made a public statement in the Press that such advice was given and that the Ministry officials ignored it?

Mr. Stokes

If I send the letter to the right hon. Baronet, will he have it properly looked into?

Mr. Higgs

Has not the Select Committee on National Expenditure fully reported on this problem?

Forward to