§ Mr. H. C. LEAasked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether the Government broker who purchases rum for the Admiralty is himself a dealer in rum; and whether the Government broker sold to or bought in the open market on behalf of the Admiralty and delivered to that Department in the month of December last 30 puncheons of Demerara rum, ex the ss. "St. Croix" on 21st December, 1908, marked G.G.; and, if so, what was the price per gallon, and from whom was the parcel bought?
§ Mr. McKENNAThe Admiralty brokers are not dealers. The lot in question was bought in the open market on behalf of the Admiralty and duly delivered. The price paid for this parcel was the lowest price current at the time for Demerara rum of any brand. It is not the practice of the Admiralty to furnish details of price.
§ Mr. H. C. LEAIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that on 2nd December last, in answer to a question put by me in reference to the purchase of rum by the Admiralty in 1906–7–8, he stated that the whole of the purchases were made by one firm of brokers, who obtained offers in the open market? Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the purchases are made by one firm who accept only one kind of rum—
§ Mr. SPEAKEROrder, order. The hon. Member ought to give notice.