MR. P. O'BRIENI beg to ask the Secretary of State for War whether the canteen committees of the various military stations in Ireland advertise for tenders for grocery and dry goods supply before giving the contracts to the Army and Navy Stores, London; and, if so, whether he can give the prices at which local traders were willing to supply, and the prices at which the contracts were given to the Army and Navy Stores Company; is it usual to take the opinion of the men before giving contracts for supply; and, if so, is it done in Ireland, and how is it obtained; and whether, quality and price being equal, he will see that a preference is given to local traders when the next contracts are closed?
§ * MR. E. STANHOPEI am afraid I can only repeat the answer already given. The canteens are managed by committees, and the committees are free to obtain their supplies where they please.
MR. P. O'BRIENWill the right hon. Gentleman answer the second paragraph of the question, whether the men are consulted before a contract is given?
§ * MR. E. STANHOPENo; it is left entirely to the committee to manage as they think proper.