§ 23. Mr. Lipsonasked the Minister of Aircraft Production whether he is aware that both employers and employees in aircraft factories are feeling anxious about their position when hostilities cease, as the break clause in contracts, if put into operation, will mean that large numbers of employees both in the main factories and those of sub-contractors will run the risk of dismissal; and what plans he has in mind to prevent this happening?
§ Sir S. CrippsI can assure the hon. Member that the problem to which he refers is being closely and urgently examined as a part of the wider problem of achieving the transition from war-time to a peace-time basis with as little dislocation as possible. The nature of the transition will depend upon the future course of the war and the dates on which it ends in Europe and the Far East respectively. The formulation of detailed 171 proposals will, of course, depend upon the alternative use to which some aircraft factories may be put and decisions can only be taken as part of a general plan which is now under consideration.
§ Mr. LipsonCan we have an assurance that schemes for converting war factories to peace-time work are being considered, and can the right hon. and learned Gentleman indicate when some information can be given of a reassuring nature to employers and employees?
§ Sir S. CrippsThe matter is under consideration in respect of the different factories and the different possibilities of post-war utilisation. When it will reach a stage when something can be said it is impossible now to say.