HC Deb 27 February 1957 vol 565 c1207
8. Miss Burton

asked the Minister of Defence if he is yet in a position to make a statement concerning the proportion of defence requirements which will be met by industry in the United Kingdom.

Mr. Sandys

It will always be a high one.

Miss Burton

Will the Minister bear in mind, when considering that "high one," that in Coventry we have a greater armament production capacity than any other city, and that that capacity includes more than one Service, which is why I am bringing the problem to the right hon. Gentleman? Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that Armstrong-Whitworth Aircraft Ltd. are shortly to turn off 600 men because of the cut-back in defence orders? As we should like to keep those men in the city, could the right hon. Gentleman do something about this soon?

Mr. Sandys

I recognise the importance of Coventry, and I have no doubt that the hon. Lady's supplementary question will be noted by her constituents.

Miss Burton

While being quite sure and very glad that it will be noted by my constituents, may I ask the Minister whether, much more important, the supplementary question will be noted by him and by the people concerned with contracts?

Mr. Sandys

I always take note of the hon. Lady's remarks.