§ Mr. Capeasked the Under-Secretary of State for Air whether he is aware that, in factories that are wholly or partially financed by the State for the manufacture of aero engines and aircraft, temperature control instruments and other industrial scientific instruments of foreign origin are installed, especially in connection with heat treatment for furnaces; and whether he intends to take steps to bring into use the type of instrument referred to of British manufacture in these factories?
§ Lieut.-Colonel MuirheadI understand that a number of foreign instruments are in use as suggested by the hon. Member. They were selected by the firms responsible for organising the shadow factories as the most suitable for their purpose and my Noble Friend is not prepared to interfere with the exercise of their discretion in this respect. I am advised that, other things being equal, British instruments would be given preference.