§ Mr. MORRELLasked whether, in view of the disclosures recently made as to the contract made by the Government in 1899 for the supply of stamps and postal stationery, the right hon. Gentleman is able to state that all contracts made in the future by Government Departments will be made after open competition; and how this will be ensured?
§ Mr. HOBHOUSEI beg to refer the hon. Member to the answer given to the hon. Member for Bow and Bromley on Monday last.
§ Mr. MORRELLWhat kind of contracts are these for which competition is not suitable?
§ Mr. HOBHOUSEI think it is evident that contracts which have reference to patents is one.
§ Mr. LANSBURYWill the right hon. Gentleman lay on the Table a Paper showing the contracts now running which were accepted without any competition, so that the House may know?
§ Mr. HOBHOUSEI will make inquiry and see if that can be done.
§ Mr. CHIOZZA MONEYDoes the principle of competition rule generally?
§ Mr. HOBHOUSECertainly.
§ Mr. WEDGWOODIs it not a fact that only certain firms are asked to tender?
§ Mr. HOBHOUSEI cannot answer that. I am not responsible for all these contracts, and these questions ought to be addressed to the various Departments concerned.