HC Deb 13 May 1947 vol 437 c1273
26. Mr. Granville Sharp

asked the Secretary of State for War what economies in manpower have been achieved to date as a result of the investigations into the methods and processes in Ordnance establishments; and what further economies are anticipated.

Mr. J. Freeman

These investigations have not been completed, and I cannot, therefore, yet say what economies may be found practicable.

Mr. Sharp

Can my hon. Friend say at what rate these investigations are being made? Can he say whether the Committee is working whole-time, or part-time? In view of the large numbers of people still employed at Ordnance establishments, will he speed up the inquiry?

Mr. Freeman

There would have had to be a jet propelled investigation if I could answer, "Yes," to the last part of my hon. Friend's supplementary question, but the fact is that the investigations started only a short time ago. I have no reason to suppose that they are not proceeding with proper speed, and I hope we shall have the conclusion before long. It would be absurd to kill the investigations by hurrying them along too much.

Mr. Sharp

Is my hon. Friend aware that the Minister of Defence stated on 12th March that the investigations were then in progress?

Mr. Freeman

They were just in progress at that date.