HC Deb 10 June 1913 vol 53 cc1424-5
46. Mr. SANDYS

asked the Prime Minister if he will give a complete list of all firms and companies, together with addresses of the same, with whom the Government has entered into contracts of over the value of £50,000 since 8th April, 1908, when the right hon. Gentleman became Prime Minister?

The PRIME MINISTER

I know of no sufficient reason to grant such a return.

Mr. SANDYS

In view of the unprecedented interest taken at the present time in Government contracts, cannot the right hon. Gentleman reconsider his decision?

The PRIME MINISTER

No, Sir, I can see no reason for gratifying roving curiosity.

Mr. SWIFT MacNEILL

Having regard to this question and the suggestion, is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the Government of which he is a Member and during his own Premiership gave a contract for the building of a "Dreadnought" to an armaments company of which one of the directors was a Member of this House sitting on the opposite side, and who before the contract was given made stirring speeches about German invasion and "Dreadnoughts"?

Mr. MOORE

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that, under the provisions of a Bill for which the hon. and learned Member voted, he secured a professorship worth £700 a year in the National University of Ireland?