HC Deb 26 October 1911 vol 30 cc286-7
Mr. HAMILTON BENN

asked whether he is aware that in the recently issued tender for Navy boots it is stipulated that the soles shall be of British tanned leather, but no such stipulation is made as to the leather to be used for the uppers; and whether this is due to an oversight?

Dr. MACNAMARA

The reply to the first part of the question is in the affirmative, and to the second part in the negative. The stipulation as to sole leather is essential to obtain the desired quality, but no such stipulation is necessary for uppers. There is no intention, however, of imposing any disqualification upon British leather for the uppers, so long as it is fully equal to specification and pattern.

Mr. HAMILTON BENN

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that previous tenders called for uppers made of leather known as "Army Butts," which is almost entirely made in Great Britain, while the present tender calls for box-calf uppers, which, unless specified as "British tanned leather" will in all probability be made of German or American leather?

Mr. W. THORNE

Will the right hon. Gentleman give a guarantee that the cows were British?