HC Deb 18 March 1942 vol 378 cc1499-500
31. Major Milner

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty what progress has been made in overcoming differences between the two sides of the shipbuilding industry with a view to an increase in output of 15 per cent. to 20 per cent.?

Mr. George Hall

Trade disputes and working conditions in the industry are matters which, in the main, fall within the jurisdiction of my right hon. Friend the Minister of Labour. At the same time, I can assure my hon. and gallant Friend that the Admiralty, as a production Department, has under constant review all questions where divergence of view or misunderstanding might impede production, and that every endeavour is made to promote harmony of working within the industry to ensure maximum output.

Major Milner

Having regard to the fact that my hon. Friend stated in the Debate that this increase was possible, that he gave the impression that he was himself giving personal attention to it, and that the continued retention of the present Controller is considered to be one of the factors preventing the industry doing its best, may I ask whether my hon. Friend is giving that attention, and whether the Controller is being retained?

Mr. Hall

The attention mentioned is being continued, and the Controller is retained.