HC Deb 21 February 1940 vol 357 cc1320-1
12. Mr. Higgs

asked the Secretary of State for Air whether he is aware that there is great concern at the proposal to erect an aeroplane factory on some of Warwickshire's best agricultural land where there is no surplus labour and no accommodation for the same; and will he consider erecting it in an industrial area more suitable for the purpose?

The Secretary of State for Air (Sir Kingsley Wood)

In deference to the views of my right hon. and gallant Friend the Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries, I have given this matter further consideration and an alternative site for this factory is now under investigation.

Mr. Higgs

Is the Minister aware that if this factory is erected in an industrial area the cost of operation will be considerably less, and does he consider that cost is of paramount importance?

Sir K. Wood

There are, of course, other considerations.

Mr. W. John Stewart

Would the right hon. Gentleman consider erecting a factory in Northern Ireland, where every facility would be given?

Mr. MacLaren

It is not safe in Northern Ireland.