§ 34. Mr. Swinglerasked the Minister of Supply if, in operating the programme of defence cuts, he will give preference to the maintenance of employment at the Royal Ordnance factories.
Mr. JonesYes, Sir. Preference will be given to the Royal Ordnance factories in the allocation of orders which they are equipped to undertake.
§ 35. Mr. Swinglerasked the Minister of Supply to what extent the programme of defence cuts will affect employment at the Royal Ordnance factories at Radway Green and Swynnerton.
Mr. JonesUntil the Services have revised their requirements in detail, I cannot say how the new defence plan will affect employment at particular factories.
§ Mr. SwinglerWill the Minister bear in mind that some months ago, after about 500 workers were made redundant at the Radway Green factory, an assurance was given at that Box by the right hon. Gentleman's predecessor that there would he no more redundancies at this factory for a period of twelve months, at a time when several hon. Members for North Staffordshire were pressing for civil production there? Will he keep that in the forefront of his mind when considering the programme when he hears from the Services?
Mr. JonesMy Answer related to the long-term rather than to the short-term implications of the White Paper.