§ Mr. MAURICE HEALYasked the Minister of Munitions whether representations have been made to his Department that the Lee Arrow Shell Factory, which was established in Cork to assist in the production of munitions and financed by local capital, has found itself unable to continue its work owing to the recent reduction in the price of shells, thereby disemploying about sixty hands; and whether, seeing that his Department is itself carrying on munition work in Cork in another factory, he will arrange to take over the Lee Arrow Factory as a controlled establishment., and thereby make use of the plant, machinery, and staff, thus preventing the disemployment which otherwise will necessarily ensue?
§ Sir W. EVANSThe reply to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. It is regretted that it is not possible to take over the Lee Arrow Company's premises as a national shell factory. If arrangements could be made for other persons to take over the plant and premises, my right hon. Friend will be prepared to continue the shell contract at the standard prices given to other contractors.