§ 23. Mr. HEWINSasked the Financial Secretary to the War Office whether the offer made by the hon. Member for Walsall, on 21st April, for the supply of 5,000,000 shells at lower prices than are now being paid was submitted in writing; if so, what were the conditions of the offer; whether it was accepted or refused; and, if refused, what were the reasons for such refusal?
Mr. BAKERAn offer to supply certain quantities of ammunition, to be made in America, was submitted to the War Office in writing by the hon. Member for Walsall. It is not possible to make a comparison of prices without further information as to what precisely was included in the offer. The offer was refused for reasons unconnected with prices. It would not be in the public interest to disclose the reasons.