§ 31. Mr. Shinwellasked the Minister of Aviation whether, in order to effect such reorganisation as he considers necessary in the aircraft industry, he will take powers to use compulsion in the case of firms which refuse to co-operate or to amalgamate.
§ Mr. SandysNo, Sir.
§ Mr. ShinwellIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that I understood from what he said the other evening in the course of the debate on the demise of the Minister of Supply that his principal function was to effect co-operation among the aircraft companies? If they refuse to co-operate, where does his function come in? What will he do? If he cannot induce them or persuade them to co-operate, would it not be better if the Government refused to give them any orders for any aircraft? What are the right hon. Gentleman's functions? For what will he receive his salary?
§ Mr. SandysThat seems to me to be a strange way to try to get co-operation. I know hon. Members opposite enjoy using powers of compulsion, but we on this side of the House prefer using persuasion.
§ Mr. ShinwellBut suppose the firms refuse to do what the right hon. Gentleman asks them to do? What will he do—just allow them to go on as at present? Where does his function come in? It is a serious matter. The right hon. Gentleman should not fob me off with a foolish answer.
§ Mr. SandysPerhaps my powers of persuasion are greater than those of the right hon. Gentleman. I have had preliminary talks with aircraft manufacturers. I am impressed with the fact that they recognise fully the urgent need for an extensive reorganisation of the industry, and I have every confidence that they will be fully co-operative.