§ MR. HENNIKER HEATON (Canterbury)asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he is in a position to inform the House what is the nature of the concessions that De La Rue and Company are prepared to make in the proposed new contract for Post Office stationery, &c.; and, whether he will undertake to invite tenders, and 570 give others an opportunity of competing for the supply of Post Office stationery, stamps, &c., without delay, in view of the fact that extensive outlay and preparations will be necessary for the special work required to be undertaken in 1890, when the present contracts will expire?
§ THE CHANCELLOR OF THE EXCHEQUERI have to state that the concessions offered by Messrs. De La Rue amount to a considerable sum; but they are conditional on a prolongation of the period of the contract. I am now considering whether the advantages offered compensate for such a prolongation, involving as it does the absence of public competition. I have caused searching inquiry to be made as to whether the revised prices offered by Messrs. De La Rue are as favourable as those which would be likely to be obtained under open competition, and I hope shortly to be able to announce my decision.
§ MR. HANBURY (Preston)What terms have been given to Messrs. De La Rue and Company?
§ THE CHANCELLOR OF THE EXCHEQUERA term of eight years after the two years during which the Contract has now to run.