HC Deb 27 November 1957 vol 578 cc1133-4
8. Mr. Mayhew

asked the Minister of Labour the total number of persons employed in the production of ordnance, armoured fighting vehicles and small arms; and the total number of employees in Royal Ordnance factories.

Mr. Iain Macleod

At the end of September, 1957, there were about 65,000 persons employed by establishments producing ordnance, armoured fighting vehicles and small arms. There were 37,000 people employed in Royal Ordnance factories, some of whom are included in the figure of 65,000.

Mr. Mayhew

Is the Minister aware that the Government have stated that the Royal Ordnance factories are to be the preferred source for conventional arms, though the figures he has given, which show a huge proportion taken by private industry, make nonsense of this assurance?

Mr. Macleod

The hon. Gentleman knows that that question should be directed to my right hon. Friend the Minister of Supply.