HC Deb 18 July 1940 vol 363 cc374-5
52. Mr. Shinwell

asked the Minister without Portfolio whether, in view of the widespread doubts among manufacturers and workers as to the relative importance of munitions and export trade, he will make a statement of Government policy in the matter?

The Minister without Portfolio (Mr. Arthur Greenwood)

I am glad to take this opportunity of making the Government's attitude clear. I regret the disturbance in our export trade which has been inevitable during the last six weeks while we have been concentrating increased capacity and labour on the production of munitions. The Government, whilst continuing to ensure the largest possible output of munitions, intend also to maintain, as far as possible, the export trade, which remains of vital importance, as a means of paying for imports of munitions and other goods essential to our war effort.

Mr. Shinwell

Is it the suggestion of the right hon. Gentleman that manufacturers are not prepared to incur the risks entailed in the export trade at the present time and prefer the safety of Government orders; and is it not possible to provide some measure of financial assistance so as to fortify manufacturers who wish to engage in export trade?

Mr. Greenwood

I think my hon. Friend has probably misunderstood the position. My right hon. Friend the President of the Board of Trade is fully aware of the difficulties having regard to the necessity for sustaining foreign trade.

Mr. Davidson

Is it contemplated to set up, in connection with export trade, any regional form of organisation, so that people in the Special Areas can make [...] applications, complaints and observations there?

Industry. Estimated number of insured persons aged 16–64*, in Great Britain.
July, 1929. July, 1931. July, 1939.
General Engineering; Engineers' Iron and Steel Founding. 579,800 569,560 655,570
Electrical Engineering … … … … 83,970 91,740 122,540
Marine Engineering, etc. … … … … 53,020 50,360 53,880
Constructional Engineering … … … 28,180 29,410 49,240
Construction and Repair† of motor vehicles, cycles and aircraft. 243,230 248,970 449,100
* Boys and girls aged under 16 did not become insurable until September, 1934. and have therefore been excluded throughout.
† Separate figures for the construction of motor vehicles, cycles and aircraft are not available.