HC Deb 05 September 1940 vol 365 cc35-6W
Dr. Little

asked the Minister of Supply whether he will send a representative to Northern Ireland to take stock of the men and resources available with a view to the establishment of a war factory, or factories, there, and the placing of largely increased orders for the materials required for the successful prosecution of the war?

Mr. Harold Macmillan

My right hon. Friend is anxious to make the maximum use of the man power and resources of Northern Ireland wherever this is practicable, and he is fully informed of the position there through the Area. Officer of the Ministry in Belfast. Moreover arrangements have recently been made for a representative of the Director of Gun and Carriage Production to be stationed in Northern Ireland, to ensure that full use is made of the engineering capacity available for the production of these weapons. In addition, I have recently held a conference with representatives of the Government of Northern Ireland. As a result, my right hon. Friend is now engaged on a re-examination of the whole question.