§ 48. Mr. WATTasked the Under-Secretary of State for War whether clothing manufacturers in Scotland have to come to Pimlico to submit samples to his Department of what they can make; and, if so, whether he can in future make some arrangement more suitable for the smaller makers?
Mr. BAKERNo, Sir, clothing manufacturers are not required to go to Pimlico to submit samples, but are invited to tender to the War Department sealed patterns and specifications, which are on view at various chambers of commerce, including Glasgow.
§ 49. Mr. WATTasked whether any arrangement has yet been made whereby Scotland is to have a representative on the Clothing Committee?
Mr. BAKERI would refer my hon. Friend to the answer on this subject which I gave on Monday last to the hon. Member for the Tradeston Division of Glasgow.
§ 50. Mr. WATTasked the Under-Secretary for War whether it is the intention of his Department to confine the clothing contract to be fixed up next month to large makers capable of turning out over 1,000 garments per week; and are these large makers to be precluded from subcontracting with smaller makers?
Mr. BAKERThe great amount of work involved in inspecting and handling a large number of small consignments will it is feared prevent the War Department from placing direct contracts with firms who are unable to make substantial deliveries, but no decision has yet been taken as to the minimum which will be accepted. Provided that the conditions as to labour, rates of wages, etc., specified in the contract are observed, contractors will be allowed to employ other persons or firms usually employed by them in their ordinary trade and actually making the garments in their own factories and workshops.