§ 38. Mr. Sorensenasked the Secretary of State for India whether, in view of our shipping losses, the policy respecting Indian shipping and shipbuilding yards will be reconsidered with a view to considerable expansion?
§ Mr. AmeryInquiries are in progress as to the earliest date when production of ships in India would be possible. Meanwhile, with my support and that of the Government of India, certain provisional steps have been taken. The hon. Member will appreciate that the question is one of the best use, for the purposes of the war, of the supplies of machinery, material and personnel that can be made available.
§ Mr. SorensenWhile appreciating the reply of the right hon. Gentleman, may I ask whether he has in mind any long-term policy for the development of Indian shipbuilding, especially in view of the shortage of ships?
§ Mr. AmeryI am concerned at the moment with the short-term policy, which is what is possible and desirable during the war.
§ Earl WintertonWill my right hon. Friend take an early opportunity, if possible, to make some announcement, so far as it is in the public interest to do so, of how far the very important scheme of Indian shipbuilding is proceeding?
§ Mr. ShinwellCan the right hon. Gentleman give us an assurance that no long-term considerations will prevent the application of the necessary short-term policy?