53. Major Lloydasked the Minister of Production whether he is aware of the concern with which the workers at a certain war factory in Renfrewshire view his decision to cease production very shortly; and whether he can arrange for alternative products at this factory so that its trained and efficient personnel can be retained?
§ Mr. LytteltonThe question whether alternative work can be found for the factory in question is being investigated as a matter of urgency, but I am unable 1142 to say at present what success is likely to attend our efforts.
Major LloydDoes my right hon. Friend realise that a number of these people are due for discharge in the next few days and that it is a matter of great urgency? Will he consider meanwhile allowing production to continue pending a further decision?
§ Mr. LytteltonI know that it is a matter of urgency. The date to which my hon. and gallant Friend refers is 16th November. There are one or two projects under consideration. I will keep closely in touch with the matter in the next few days.
§ Mr. GallacherIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that there is deep feeling in Scotland about the closing of factories? Will he give particular attention to this factory, which is new and well equipped, and see that it is kept going?
§ Mr. BuchananIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that this factory, which in the past has suffered a great deal of distress, is very up to date and very capable? Will he not consider making an effort to see that its first-class machinery can be used?
§ Mr. LytteltonThe machinery is of a very special nature. Our difficulty is to get alternative production. I would not minimise the difficulty, but I am doing my best.