§ Mr. WEDGWOODasked what was the annual value of the printing work done for the Stationery Office by Messrs. Wyman in 1910-11; whether this work is tendered for annually, or at what periods; if at periods of more than one year, on what notice the contracts terminate; and how many firms are invited to tender?
§ Mr. HOBHOUSEThe value of the printing work done for the Stationery Office by Messrs. Wyman in the year 1910–11 was about £27,000. The work was provided for in nine contracts, the terms of three of which have run out, subject to the completion of outstanding work. The current contracts held by the firm run generally for five years, and are subject to termination in some cases at twelve months' notice and in others at six months' notice. Tenders for the contracts (with one exception) were invited by advertisement in the newspapers, as well as by letter addressed to firms selected from a list which is kept at the Stationery Office. The exception was a contract involving a not very considerable amount of work. In this case the contract was not advertised, but invitations to tender were sent out to some 150 firms.