HC Deb 21 September 1948 vol 456 c675
17. Mr. Thornton-Kemsley

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what encouragement he has given to the setting up of the Agricultural Machinery Mobile Repair Unit at Kinnell, Angus, an organisation employing approximately 15 Polish ex-Service men; and if he is aware that adequate agricultural engineering facilities were already available in the district before the setting up of this unit.

The Secretary of State for Scotland (Mr. Woodburn)

With the continuous increase in mechanisation of farms, I am advised that there will be ample work for the existing repair firms and the new firm to which the hon. Member refers. Before securing accommodation on Kinnell Aerodrome this firm asked for my help in securing certain other premises but apart from that they received no assistance from my Departments.

Mr. Thornton-Kemsley

Is the Secretary of State aware that the arrival of this firm has given rise to widespread alarm amongst private enterprise engineering firms who have already an ample number of mechanics to turn out the work offered to them?

Mr. Woodburn

It is hardly for the Government to interfere with private enterprise any more than is necessary.

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