§ 18. Lieut.-Colonel Bromley-Davenportasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department the total number of fires in factories making bomber aircraft in the last twelve months; where they have taken place; what reports he has received in respect of them; what action has been taken by him as a result of such reports; and what inquiries are being instituted in connection with the fires at Messrs. A. V. Roe's works with a view to finding out their cause.
§ Mr. R. A. ButlerDuring the last twelve months, I have been informed of three serious and seven minor fires in such factories. All the serious fires and three of the minor ones were at the A. V. Roe works, and I understand that local inquiries into their causes are still in progress. I have so far received reports on the first two of the three serious fires.
§ Lieut. - Colonel Bromley - DavenportAre the taxpayers fully covered against possible losses, either direct or indirect, resulting from these incidents?
§ Mr. ButlerI understand that the fires have had only a limited effect on production, so that that is something. I cannot give any further answer to my hon. and gallant Friend's supplementary question.