Computers and Tabulating Machines (Contracts)

HC Deb 04 April 1963 vol 675 cc79-80W

Mr. Currie

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer (1) whether, when ordering computers and tabulating machines on behalf of the War Office, he will give consideration to those manufactured in the North Down constituency, in view of the high rate of unemployment in Northern Ireland;

(2) whether, when ordering computers and tabulating machines on behalf of the Admiralty, he will give consideration to those manufactured in the North Down constituency, in view of the high rate of unemployment in Northern Ireland.

Mr. Barber

It is the practice to seek competitive tenders for computers and tabulating machines required by H.M. Government, and the firm which has manufacturing capacity in Northern Ireland is always invited to tender.