§ 56. Mr. Masonasked the Minister of Supply to what extent he has now reviewed the prospects of using the present engineering capacity of Royal Ordnance factories, which are being steadily run down owing to reductions in Service requirements, for similar work emanating from overseas orders; to what extent he anticipates using some of this capacity for atomic energy work; how much can be saved by making components for the newer types of weapons; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Aubrey JonesI am naturally anxious to employ the capacity existing in the Royal Ordnance factories for any of the three purposes to which the hon. Member refers. The prospects of doing so are taken into account in reviewing capacity. Such work, however, is not likely to offset the diminished requirements for conventional equipment except to a limited extent.