§ 36. Colonel J. R. H. Hutchisonasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty which type of vessels rank as first priority in the defence programme.
§ Mr. CallaghanThe emphasis, at present, is on ships and aircraft for antisubmarine and mine warfare.
§ Colonel HutchisonIs the hon. Gentleman aware of the shortage of steel arising from the shortage of transport wagons which, if not tackled very soon, will result in an automatic priority system which may not be as comfortable as the one which the hon. Gentleman wants?
§ Mr. CallaghanYes, Sir, but I should have thought that that question would have been better addressed to the Minister of Supply.
§ Colonel HutchisonHas the hon. Member consulted his right hon. Friend?
§ Mr. CallaghanI am always consulting him.