HC Deb 08 March 1948 vol 448 cc777-8
23. Air-Commodore Harvey

asked the Minister of Supply how many men and women are employed in aircraft engine factories, including jet turbines and airframe factories, covering both military and civil.

Mr. G. R. Strauss

About 33,000 men and 5,000 women were employed in the main aero-engine factories at the end of January this year. The corresponding figures for airframe factories are 74,000 men and 14,000 women.

Air-Commodore Harvey

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the figures he has just given are considerably below those previously given by the Chancellor of the Exchequer, and is there sufficient potential to meet an emergency should it arise?

Mr. Strauss

That is rather a broader question. I think these figures show there is a substantial number of people employed, and we are satisfied that they are sufficient.