§ 18. Mr. Peartasked the Minister of Supply if he has any statement to make on the future of High Duty Alloys Ltd. factory, Distington, Cumberland.
§ Mr. G. R. StraussThis privately-owned factory was extended and additional plant installed during the war at 16 Government expense. The extension and part of the plant have now been sold to the owners, High Duty Alloys, Ltd. My information is that only part of the factory will be needed for aluminium fabrication, owing to the reduced civilian demand, and the remainder will be let for other manufacturing purposes, if a suitable tenant can be found.
§ Mr. PeartIs my right hon. Friend aware that the paying off of skilled workers recently is causing concern in that area and would he be prepared to conduct a local inquiry as to the future of the factory?
§ Mr. StraussI am aware of what my hon. Friend says, but High Duty Alloys, Ltd., have a right of option on the building and, although they will consult us as to how it will be used, we have no authority to intervene.