§ 63. Mr. WATTasked the Under-Secretary of State for War what position Messrs. Glanfield and Company, of London, occupy with reference to his Department in connection with the purchase of clothing for the Army; must all clothing be purchased through and passed by that firm; and is that firm allowed to appoint local agents to carry out the same duties in different localities?
Mr. BAKERMessrs. Glanfield and Company have long been important contractors for the supply of uniform clothing. In September last a special contract was made with them, by which they undertook to make arrangements with firms not then in relation with the War Office to act as their sub-contractors for the manufacture of clothing. All such cloth- 568 ing is inspected and passed by the War Office in the usual way, but it is understood that Messrs. Glanfield and Company have travelling inspectors and local agents passing on their behalf clothing made by the sub-contractors. This special arrangement was resorted to as an emergency measure, and with the more complete organisation of the clothing trade since effected it is no longer necessary.
§ Mr. WATTWill the right hon. Gentleman say whether this firm is paid by commission or charges a profit?
Mr. BAKERI do not know what arrangements there are between the subcontractors and Messrs. Glanfield.