HC Deb 15 October 1945 vol 414 cc707-8W
Mr. Hector

Hughes asked the Minister of Supply and of Aircraft Production what steps he proposes to take to stop the discharge of workers from the M.A.P. factory at Tullos, Aberdeen, which is causing unnecessary unemployment and unrest in Aberdeen and district, by the fact that this factory employed several thousand workers during the war, and that owing to recent discharges only about 300 workers are employed there now.

Mr. Wilmot

The factory to which the hon. Member refers was erected to provide additional capacity for the manufacture of aero-engine accessories, and only commenced production early this year. As a result of the curtailment of the aircraft programme at the end of the war, this factory has been declared surplus to our requirements and has been notified to the Board of Trade as available for allocation for peace-time production from the end of this year. The maximum number of workpeople employed at this factory was 562 in July, and the number now employed is approximately 400.

Mr. Scollan

asked the Minister of Supply and of Aircraft Production if he will state his intentions with regard to the future of the factory presently operated by R.E.M.E. at Linwood, Renfrewshire.

Major Lloyd

asked the Minister of Supply and of Aircraft Production whether he will make a statement with regard to the future of Linwood Road Factory, Renfrewshire.

Mr. Wilmot

I am considering the matter in consultation with my right hon. and learned Friend the President of the Board of Trade.

Major Lloyd

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he will make a statement on the future of the Rolls-Royce factory at Hillington, Renfrewshire; how far it is intended to use surplus portions of this factory for other products in the near future and for what products; and if he will give an estimate of the maximum number of workers who may ultimately expect to be employed in this factory.

Sir S. Cripps

My Department have recently been informed by the Ministry of Supply and Aircraft Production that about half of this factory will not be required by Messrs. Rolls Royce and is therefore available for allocation to other users. This portion of the factory will revert to Scottish Industrial Estates who are taking steps, in association with the Regional Controller of the Board of Trade, to interest suitable firms. It is too early, therefore, to state what products will be produced or how many workers are likely to be employed.