HC Deb 03 April 1941 vol 370 cc1167-8
65. Dr. Little

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Aircraft Production whether he has taken measures with a view to a much larger production of aeroplanes in Northern Ireland; and whether he is arranging for the establishment there of war factories to ensure a constant ample supply of aeroplanes, as local labour is abundant?

The Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Aircraft Production (Colonel Llewellin)

I am well aware that there is an ample supply of labour in Northern Ireland, although not much of it is skilled engineering labour. We have already increased the orders given to manufacturers there. In addition, I have myself recently had two discussions with the Minister of Commerce for Northern Ireland, as to whether we can place still further orders in that area. I think that we may be able to do so.