HC Deb 13 June 1940 vol 361 cc1386-8
67. Mr. Davidson

asked the Minister of Supply the number of persons forming the Ministry of Supply Area Committee in Glasgow; what are their duties; and what methods have they adopted to acquaint Glasgow firms with the needs of the Ministry?

Mr. Harold Macmillan

The Glasgow Advisory Committee consists of 20 members. With my hon. Friend's permission, I will circulate in the Official Report the present terms of reference of the committee. New arrangements are being made between the Ministry of Labour and the Supply Departments as to the area organisation generally and the future duties of these committees are now under active consideration.

Mr. Davidson

While thanking the hon. Gentleman for that reply, may I ask that in connection with the new arrangement he will take note of the fact that what is considered by business men in Glasgow to be most necessary is that they should be fully acquainted with the needs of the Ministry?

Mr. MacMillan

It is one of the functions of this committee to inform the Ministry of capacity which may be available in the area.

Mr. Stokes

Is the Minister prepared to state the number of times that this committee has met?

Mr. Macmillan

I must ask for notice if I am to state the exact number of meetings which have been held, but I know that the committee has been in operation.

Mr. Mathers

Will the hon. Gentleman arrange that Scottish Members of Parliament are informed of the exact scope and functions of the office in Glasgow, so that application and inquiries may be properly directed?

Mr. Macmillan

I will see that Members are informed, but I think there is some confusion between area boards and the area committees which are the subject of this Question.

Following are the terms of reference:

  1. (1) To advise the Area Board regarding the efficient output of anything required by the Ministry of Supply and the Defence Departments, and to assist the Board in overcoming local difficulties.
  2. (2) To survey the Area within which the Committee is working with a view to increasing efficient production in the Area.
  3. (3) To consider and make recommendations to the Area Board upon any matter arising out of the terms 1 and 2 except matters which are properly the concern of the Ministry of Labour and National Service, or are nor- 1388 mally handled by the joint organisation of employers and trade unions in connection with wages and conditions of employment.