asked the Minister of Aircraft Production whether he will make a detailed statement of the reasons which have actuated him in taking over Messrs. Short Brothers and also control of the General Aircraft Company, Limited?

As regards the first part of the Question, I would refer the hon. Member to the answer given to-day to the hon. Member for Cheltenham (Mr. Lipson). As to the General Aircraft Co., Ltd., I was of opinion that it was necessary for the efficient prosecution of the war and for maintaining supplies of aircraft essential to the war effort that I should take control of the whole undertaking of General Aircraft, Limited, and in consequence I appointed an authorised controller to the undertaking.