HC Deb 11 March 1915 vol 70 cc1550-1
35. Mr. SHIRLEY BENN

asked the Under-Secretary of State for War if the Government have authorised inquiries being made on their behalf in America from houses engaged in the timber business who have recognised agents resident in England?

The FINANCIAL SECRETARY to the WAR OFFICE (Mr. H. Baker)

Inquiries are being made in the United States and Canada for timber suitable for pontoon work. The requirements were advertised in September last in the timber trade papers in this country, and similar advertisements are also appearing at the present time. No instructions to apply to particular houses in America have been given.

Mr. BENN

May I ask if the hon. Gentleman realises the injury which is being done to English houses which are agents for American houses by the American houses being applied to directly and the English houses ignored?

Mr. BAKER

No injury is being done. If this particular kind of wood can be obtained in this country, it certainly will be.

Mr. BOOTH

Have these inquiries been made by the War Office direct, or through the Office of Works?

Mr. BAKER

By the War Office direct.

Sir C. KINLOCH-COOKE

Is the hon. Gentleman undertaking this business through some agency like Mr. Meyer; and, if so, what agency?

Mr. BAKER

It is a special kind of wood which is being asked for. Advertisements have been published, and if the wood can be obtained in this country, it will.