HC Deb 18 October 1944 vol 403 cc2375-6
59. Major Lloyd

asked the Minister of Supply whether he is aware of complaints from members of the used machine tool industry in Scotland over the difficulties and delays in securing permits to obtain used machine tools, which are often in urgent demand; and whether anything is being done to improve the present position, which is causing dissatisfaction to those concerned.

The Minister of Supply (Sir Andrew Duncan)

I am not aware of any general difficulties in the issue of licences. If my hon. and gallant Friend will kindly give me details of any particular cases he has in mind I shall be glad to look into them.

Major Lloyd

Does my right hon. Friend realise that there is the greatest indignation among members of the used machine tool industry in Scotland, and that his reply will cause great surprise? Will he give me an assurance that an impartial investigation will be made by the Ministry of Supply into the many complaints against the Machine Tool Control in Scotland?

Sir A. Duncan

I am very surprised to hear that there have been these complaints. I have not heard of any except in one case, which is a special case on its own, and if the hon. and gallant Member has any further cases I shall be glad to have them.

Mr. Austin Hopkinson

Will direct application from users be accepted, or have they to apply to the merchants?

Sir A. Duncan

That is another question, and I shall look into it.