§ MR. FIELDTo ask the Postmaster-General whether he can state what amount is spent annually on the purchase of Post Office engineering stores, and how much of this amount is spent in Ireland; whether he can state the value of such stores used up in Great Britain and Ireland, respectively; whether he contemplates giving contractors the same opportunities of tendering for the delivery of the Irish supplies in Dublin as are now afforded in the case of uniform, stationery, baskets, and bags required for the Post Office service in Ireland.
(Answered by Mr. Sydney Buxton.) The amount spent last year on the purchase of Post Office engineering stores was £953,000, of which about £500 was spent in Ireland. The value of engineering stores used in Great Britain and Ireland was £952,000 and £11,500 respectively. Any makers of such stores in Ireland who desire to be invited to tender should send their names and all other necessary particulars to the Controller of Stores, Bedford Street, W.C.