asked the Minister of Supply in view of the need for economy in defence expenditure, what steps he is taking to reduce expenditure on preparations for bacteriological warfare.

We are at present reviewing the entire field of defence expenditure with the object of effecting economies wherever practicable. Expenditure on bacteriological research is being examined along with expenditure on other aspects of defence.

In view of the wording of the hon. Member's Question, I should make it clear that our preparations are not "for" but "against" bacteriological warfare.

In view of the Minister's assurance that the preparations are purely defensive preparations, will he not advise the economy of transferring this bacteriological business from the Ministry of Supply to the Ministry of Health?

This is one of the many bees which the hon. Member has buzzing about in his bonnet. He has asked that question I do not know how many times. He has been assured that this is primarily a defence matter, to make arrangements and to conduct research to protect our people against such an abominable form of warfare should it occur.

Can the right hon. Gentleman tell the House when this review of defence expenditure will be completed, and the House informed of the results?

We are constantly trying to reduce expenditure. I have no doubt that some statement will be made in due course. I was not referring to any statement to be made in the immediate future.

asked the Minister of Supply if he is aware that skilled workers are leaving certain aircraft factories for alternative employment, due to the possibility of unemployment caused by the cessation of work on Comets; and what plans he has now for placing Government orders with these factories to overcome this situation.

Yes, Sir. I have been exploring the possibility of easing the immediate difficulties of aircraft firms affected by the stoppage of Comet construction. In practice, that means giving them more orders for the types of aircraft for which they are already tooled up. Each case has been exhaustively examined. As a result I have regretfully come to the conclusion that we cannot provide these firms quickly with additional suitable work except by ordering more aircraft than the Services require; and I am sure the House would not wish me to do that.

Is the Minister aware that the workers at Airspeed. Portsmouth, will be very pleased with the first part of his answer?

Can the Minister confirm that the research work at Farnborough has discovered the cause of the trouble to the Comets and, if he can, are we going back to fall Comet production?

As I explained last week, these investigations are not yet completed and I do not feel that it would be a good thing if I made a piecemeal announcement.

Regarding the firm mentioned by my hon. and gallant Friend, I understand that the position is that over the last three months or so about 180 people have either been discharged or left of their own accord. That represents a reduction of about 7½ per cent. I am advised that there should be work on other types, apart from Comet work, which will keep the present labour force employed for a number of months.