§ 23. Dr. Littleasked the Minister of Labour whether, in view of the promised expansion of war production in Northern Ireland, he will make immediate arrangements whereby capable persons will be brought to this country to receive the training necessary to equip them for holding key-positions in this intensfication of the war effort?
§ Mr. BevinArrangements are already in operation under which suitable workers selected by the Government of Northern Ireland are trained under the Government Training Schemes in this country, for subsequent employment in Northern Ireland.
§ Dr. LittleWill the Minister largely extend the training facilities for men from Northern Ireland as the placing of more of these men in key positions in industry 273 would lead to an increase of war production in Northern Ireland?
Lieut.-Colonel Sir William AllenCan the Minister tell us why no training centre has been established in Northern Ireland, where there is so much work being done?
§ Mr. BevinI think that question should be addressed to the Northern Ireland Government. I am not responsible for Northern Ireland.
§ Sir W. AllenSurely the Minister understands that the Northern Ireland Government have nothing whatever to do with the prosecution of the war? It is entirely a matter for this Government and is their responsibility.
§ Mr. BevinI am afraid that is an entirely new doctrine. I thought Northern Ireland was the most patriotic place in the world.