§ 48. Mr. Ellis Smithasked the Minister of Supply whether he is aware of the current affairs talks given in the Army; and will he allow similar talks on appropriate topics to be given in the Royal Ordnance factories during meal times where desired and in the hostels; and also arrange for talks to be given by pilots, merchant seamen, shop stewards from well organised factories, trade union officials and others?
§ Sir A. DuncanI am aware of the current affairs talks given in the Army. So far this year, over 1,200 talks by Services personnel, including merchant seamen, have been arranged in factories working for the Ministry of Supply.
§ Mr. SmithDoes that answer mean that nothing will be put in the way of reasonable talks, of a character as suggested in the Question, being given to workpeople employed in factories?
§ Sir A. DuncanYes, Sir, nothing is put in the way. Factories, as a rule, are consulted, and the type of talks they are most anxious to have is that which we provide.