HC Deb 30 March 1936 vol 310 cc1634-5W
Sir J. NALL

asked the Under-Secretary of State for Air whether the Government will consult recognised industrial area development organisations in the matter of the suitable location of new factories for aircraft production, with a view to considering their recommendations in consultation with firms with whom special and exceptional arrangements may be contemplated?

Sir P. SASSOON

Numerous factors have to be taken into account in deciding the best location of new factories, and, among these, full weight is given to any representations which may have been received from recognised industrial area development organisations. The most practical and convenient course is for such organisations to communicate with the Ministry, making such representations as they see fit; and this has been done in a number of cases.

Sir J. NALL

asked the Under-Secretary of State for Air whether Government financial support, over and above the payment at market rates for the manufactures purchased by the State, is involved in the scheme for the erection of aircraft factories by two leading firms of motorcar manufacturers; whether the Government will ensure that the sites chosen for the new factories, whilst being in accordance with the strategical necessities of the case, will contribute to that fair division of economic activity over the different parts of the country which it is the frequently-declared desire of the Government to witness, and avoid demands for labour and social services in areas where demand already exceeds supply?

Sir P. SASSOON

The erection and equipment of the supplementary factories or extensions will, as a rule, be financed by His Majesty's Government and both shops and plant will remain Government property. As regards the second part of the question, both in selecting these firms and siting the factories, all relevant considerations have been, and will be, taken fully into account, including those mentioned by my hon. Friend. It will, however, be essential in most cases, on economic, technical and administrative grounds, that the actual factories should be situated within reasonable distance of the main existing works.