13. Mr. J. J. Davidsonasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Labour whether he intends to set up a Scottish committee, with appropriate powers, for the purpose of obtaining the maximum industrial production of Scottish industry?
§ Mr. AsshetonThe new organisation set up by my right hon. Friend provides for the transfer to the Ministry of Labour and National Service of the Area Board for Scotland, and one of the Board's main objects will be to ensure the distribution of labour for war production to the best possible advantage.
Mr. DavidsonCan the hon. Gentleman say whether that Area Board is now operating, or whether it will operate in the very near future?
§ Mr. AsshetonI believe the Area Board is set up, and it will certainly operate in the very near future.
Mr. DavidsonIs the hon. Gentleman aware that many Scottish industries of a big character and big organisation are practically at the point of disbanding their organisation, although they have men who are absolutely essential for national service?
§ Mr. AsshetonThat is another Question.