§ Sir R. Gowerasked the Minister of Supply whether he is aware that many printing works are now only working at a reduced capacity; and whether he will investigate the possibility of making use of the facilities which they have for certain simple operations in connection with armament supply work?
§ Mr. Harold MacmillanI am aware of the difficulties which are being experienced by the printing trade on account of the war, and I am anxious to utilise the facilities provided by printing works for any class of war work to which they can be adapted. Unfortunately, it is not possible to utilise printing machinery for armament purposes, as this machinery does not lend itself to any other use than printing. I am, however, arranging to have the position of the printing trade examined by the Industrial Capacity Committee of the Production Council, with a view to reaching a decision as to the best policy to be pursued in connection with the present redundant capacity which exists in the industry.