HC Deb 02 July 1951 vol 489 cc1892-3
40. Mr. Nabarro

asked the Minister of Supply the aggregate value of machine tools for the defence programme received in the United Kingdom during the period of 12 months ended June 1951, respectively, from American and Continental sources; the values respectively of machine tools for the defence programme outstanding for delivery from these sources; to what extent delivery is proceeding according to schedule; and whether he will make a statement.

Mr. G. R. Strauss

My Department has ordered machine tools for the defence programme from the United States and Western Europe to the value of £53 million and £40 million, respectively, during this period. Deliveries so far, amounting to £500,000 and £1 million, respectively, have been made as scheduled. Large-scale deliveries are not due to start until later in the year and all practical steps are being taken to ensure that our requirements are met in time.

Mr. Nabarro

Can the Minister give the House an assurance that he expects the arrival of all these machine tools at a rate commensurate with the rate of increased output of tanks, guns, aircraft and military impedimenta of all descriptions?

Mr. Strauss

There is no reason at the moment to suggest that we shall not get these machine tools in time, but it is impossible to give any guarantee.

Mr. Sydney Silverman

Can my right hon. Friend say whether the Continental sources referred to in the Question include Czechoslovakia and what is now the position with regard to the reciprocal orders for machine tools placed between Czechoslovakia and this country?

Mr. Strauss

I could not give an answer to that without notice.