HC Deb 12 May 1953 vol 515 cc1031-2
5. Mr. Keenan

asked the President of the Board of Trade what stage has been reached in the negotiations for the Standard Motor Company to build a factory in Liverpool; and if he will make a full statement in regard to this matter.

Mr. P. Thorneycroft

I have at present nothing to add to my reply of 27th March to a Question on this subject by the right hon. Member for Huyton (Mr. H. Wilson).

Mr. Keenan

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that it is now understood in Liverpool that this firm will not now build a factory there, and that people are concerned because it was reported recently in the Press that the company were making an arrangement with the Hotchkiss Motor Company in France for their business to be extended there? If that is so, and the business will no longer be in Liverpool, and the proposed factory will probably be erected in France, will the right hon. Gentleman see that no credit is advanced which will enable the factory to be taken from Liverpool to France?

Mr. Thorneycroft

While appreciating the very proper anxiety and interest of the hon. Gentleman in this subject, I am in discussion with the Standard Motor Company on this matter. They have shown every willingness to help, and it would not be at all helpful if I discussed all their production plans while those discussions were going on.

Mr. Keenan

But is the Minister not now aware that the Standard Motor Co. have no intention of going on with the factory project in Liverpool?

Mr. Thorneycroft

I have not accepted in any way any of the implications in the Questions asked by the hon. Gentleman.