Mr. TYSON WILSONasked the Secretary of State for War whether, before it was decided to proceed with the depot at Cippenham, every effort was made to utilise existing Government factories which were completey equipped, electrically installed, heated, and provided with sidings and convenient roads; whether he is aware that the machine-gun factory at Burton-on-Trent, covering 20 acres, costing over £1,000,000 to equip, and which has never been used, is eminently suitable for a motor repair depot; and whether the possibility of utilising this factory was fully considered before commencing the Slough undertaking?
§ Mr. CHURCHILLBefore the works at Cippenham were started, exhaustive inquiries were made and the Ministry of Munitions was asked whether any Government factories were available and suitable for mechanical transport. Those available were examined by experts and found to be unsuitable for the purpose. The machine-gun factory at Burton-on-Trent was not amongst those offered to the Department, and I understand that the factory is being used.