HC Deb 13 May 1975 vol 892 cc232-3
12. Mr. Hoyle

asked the Secretary of State for Defence how many applications he has received for the post of consultant to progress textile contracts in South-East Asia.

The Under-Secretary of State for Defence for the Army (Mr. Robert C. Brown)

None. No such post exists or is contemplated.

Mr. Hoyle

I am pleased to hear that answer. Does my hon. Friend agree that there is a need to look at defence contracts, particularly in the light of the recession in the British textile industry, to make sure that as close to 100 per cent. of orders as possible is placed with British textile firms?

Mr. Brown

While I very much agree with the hon. Member—

Mr. Speaker

Order. I must ask the Minister to face this way so that I can hear too.

Mr. Brown

I apologise, Mr. Speaker. I agree with my hon. Friend's statement, but I cannot be drawn on the subject since Question No. 17 is related to this matter.