HC Deb 09 March 1899 vol 68 cc297-8
MR. PHILIPPS (Pembroke)

I beg to ask the First Lord of the Admiralty whether a contract for work to be done at St. Dogmael's Battery, near Cardigan, was given to a London tradesman; whether a local tradesman wrote to the Admiralty for specifications, and got no reply till after the contract had been given; and why this work was handed over to a contractor in London when it could have been done as efficiently and more cheaply in the locality?

THE CIVIL LORD OF THE ADMIRALTY (Mr. A. CHAMBERLAIN, Worcestershire, E.)

The local tradesman referred to did not apply for specifications till four days after the tenders had been opened. The contract was given to a London firm whose tender was the lowest received.

MR. PHILIPPS

Was it known locally that tenders were to be invited?

MR. A. CHAMBERLAIN

I cannot say whether it was in this case. The work required was of a peculiar class, and I very much doubt if any local contractor could have executed it. We always try to get local tenders if possible.

MR. PHILIPPS

On another occasion will the Admiralty let it be known locally that specifications are to be given out?

MR, A. CHAMBERLAIN

I cannot undertake to advertise on every occasion. But we always call for local tenders when possible.