28. Mr. PIKE PEASEasked the First Lord of the Admiralty if he will state his reason for purchasing a quantity of the leather used for making boots for the Navy from Germany instead of using British leather; and if he will state his reason for refusing to meet a deputation of the leading members of the leather trade?
§ Dr. MACNAMARAThe Admiralty has directly made no such purchase. Leather for seamen's boots is provided by the bootmakers who hold contracts for the supply of the finished article. Contractors are bound by the Admiralty specification to use only British leathers for the soles of the boots, as the quality of such leather is superior to that of foreign leather. But they are at liberty to use either British or foreign box-calf leather for the uppers. it is probably the fact that contractors find that they can get box-calf leather of the flexibility and durability which we require for the seaman's boot at a lower price from America or Continental than from British sources. But it is made perfectly clear to all concerned that there is no restriction placed by the Admiralty on British leather. As regards the question of the refusal to meet a deputation, the Light Leather Trades' Federation have been informed that the Admiralty are willing to receive from them a practical demonstration, by means of samples and prices, of both British and foreign boxcalf leather, illustrating the superiority which the Federation claim for the British quality with a comparison in cost. It does seem to me that a technical examination of such samples and careful consideration of comparative prices is necessary as a preliminary to any general discussion with a trade deputation. The Federation, I may say, have not yet responded to the Admiralty invitation, which has been twice extended to them.
Mr. PIKE PEASEMay I ask if they do respond to the invitation given the Admiralty would be willing to meet a deputation of the leading leather sellers, as there is a strong feeling with regard to this question? I understand—
§ Mr. SPEAKERThe hon. Member is not entitled to make a statement.
§ Mr. CROOKSMay I ask whether it is a fact that the sealed envelopes containing samples bear the words "Sealed Samples"?
§ Mr. LLOYDIs it a fact, as already pointed out, that they can supply British leather of the same quality or better quality?
§ Dr. MACNAMARAIf they can demonstrate to us that leather of the same flexibility and durability can be supplied, having regard to price, the Admiralty would be very pleased to accept British contracts.
§ Dr. MACNAMARAI said in the answer I have just given that no good purpose would be served by a general discussion until it is demonstrated that they can do what I have indicated.
Mr. FRED HALLMay I ask whether any stipulation is made as to the wages to be paid in the production of this leather?