HC Deb 06 April 1909 vol 3 cc922-3
Mr. CLAUDE HAY

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he will arrange that contractors who supply canvas for his Department shall be bound, as in the case of contractors supplying canvas to the Admiralty, under their contracts to deliver canvas manufactured in the United Kingdom; and if he has inquired from the firms who now supply his Department with canvas whether that canvas is manufactured in the United Kingdom?

Mr. HALDANE

The War Department has an ample supply of canvas from English and Scotch manufacture of high reputation. I, therefore, see no reason for introducing into the contracts stipuations as to place of origin, and for making the inquiries suggested.

Mr. CLAUDE HAY

Can the right hon. Gentleman say definitely whether the canvas supplied is or is not made in the United Kingdom?

Mr. HALDANE

I believe it is made in the United Kingdom.

Mr. CLAUDE HAY

Have you ascertained definitely?

Mr. HALDANE

No.

Mr. CLAUDE HAY

Why do you not adopt the course followed in Admiralty contracts of putting in a clause that the ai tide is to be manufactured in the United Kingdom?

Mr. HALDANE

It is not necessary. As the article is supplied by English and Scotch manufacturers, we presume it comes from the United Kingdom.