HC Deb 26 February 1941 vol 369 cc512-3
50. Mr. G. Strauss

asked the Minister of Supply whether, in view of the orders recently accepted by manufacturers of machine tools in Australia for delivery to the Japanese Government, he will take steps to acquire the total output of such tools from the Dominion?

Mr. Macmillan

Inquiries have been made into the matter to which the hon. Member refers. I understand that the production and export of machine tools in Australia are under strict control, and that no orders for Japan have been accepted by any Australian manufacturer.

Mr. Strauss

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that this statement was made by the '' Times '' correspondent in Australia?

Mr. Macmillan

My hon. Friend must realise that the matter is one for the Australian Government, and I cannot give information for them.