HC Deb 22 February 1915 vol 70 cc25-6
61. Mr. PERCY HARRIS

asked for the agreed prices paid by the War Office to contractors for the various articles of khaki clothing?

Mr. BAKER

The flat rates agreed upon with the Wholesale Clothiers' Federation are as follows:—

s. d.
Greatcoats (dismounted) … 28 0
Jackets (Service dress) … 12 6
Trousers (Service dress) … 8 9
Pantaloons … 18 6

74. Sir WALTER ESSEX

asked the Financial Secretary to the War Office with what frequency the accounts of the quartermasters at the various training camps are audited; whether any such audits are now in arrear; and, if so, in how many cases?

Mr. BAKER

The accounts kept by quartermasters are the store accounts of clothing and equipment. These are annual accounts, and not yet due for audit.

75. Mr. PRINGLE

asked the Financial Secretary to the War Office whether the Army clothing purchased in America and Canada was purchased on commission; and, if so, what is the rate of commission?

Mr. BAKER

The portion of the service dress clothing ordered in the United States was purchased on commission basis, the rate paid being 1½ per cent. Orders for clothing in Canada have been placed by an officer of the Royal Army Clothing Department who was sent out for that purpose.

Sir H. DALZIEL

Can the hon. Gentleman say how much, approximately, the purchases have been?

Mr. BAKER

I should like notice of that question.

Mr. HOGGE

Have the purchases now stopped?

Mr. BAKER

I think the order is still being completed, but the order was given some time ago.

76. Mr. PRINGLE

asked whether commodities other than clothing have been purchased in the United States and Canada on commission; and, if so, what is the rate of the commission?

Mr. BAKER

Various commodities other than clothing have been purchased in the United States on commission, at varying rates of commission not exceeding 2 per cent. No such purchases have been made on commission in Canada.