HC Deb 30 July 1951 vol 491 cc136-7W
81. Mr. Ellis Smith

asked the Minister of Supply on what dates this year the Engineering Advisory Council has met; and if he will give a report on the work of this council.

Mr. G. R. Strauss

The Engineering Advisory Council has met this year on 3rd January, 14th March, 2nd May and 5th July.

The Council has discussed a wide variety of subjects, including ways of increasing productivity; research and development; education and training in industry; exports; foreign competition; European recovery and co-operation; joint consultation; the electricity supply position; metal supplies and the impact of re-armament on the engineering industry. It has proved most useful to me, and I believe to industry, as a medium for exchange of views, particularly on those aspects of Government policy which affect this important industry. Summaries of the Council's discussions are widely circulated to both sides of the engineering industry.