§ 14. Sir Richard Aclandasked the Minister of Aircraft Production whether he has considered communications received from the production side of the management and from the workers in an aircraft factory whose name has been supplied to him; and whether he has 1034 been able to take steps to secure the reinstatement of the individual referred to in these communications pending an inquiry into the circumstances of his dismissal?
Mr. Ben SmithWe have been informed by the managing firm that they are dispensing with the services of the gentleman referred to in consequence of a reorganisation designed to give increased output at this and another factory under the same management. Representations from members of the staff have been received, but, after careful consideration, my right hon. Friend sees no reason to question the judgment of the managing firm.
§ Sir R. AclandIn view of the fact that this man retained the confidence of the production managers in the works, do the Government propose to take any steps to satisfy these men that his dismissal was in the interests of production and not in the financial interests of Rootes Securities?
Mr. SmithMy hon. Friend's Question does not raise any issue of the financial structure of the firm, but he can take my word for it that I have interviewed the management, and have seen representatives of the executive staff and everybody connected with this case, and I am satisfied that the matter should remain where it is.
§ Sir R. AclandIn view of the fact that this action has been responsible for a devastating fall in morale and output in this factory, I beg to give notice that I shall raise this matter again at the earliest possible moment.