HC Deb 03 August 1916 vol 85 cc492-3
73. Major WEDGWOOD

asked the Secretary to the Admiralty whether the Admiralty give to contractors the name of a firm called Trubridge, of Milburn House, Newcastle-on-Tyne, as suitable makers of manganese bronze and gun-metal ingots; whether he is aware that till recently the name Trubridge was Keiffenheim: whether he is aware that this firm advertise that their ingots are made economically from scrap castings; and whether the Admiralty knows of and agrees to the use of ingots so made, provided the castings pass the usual tensile and chemical tests, generally or only in the case of this firm?

Dr. MACNAMARA

The answer to the first part of the question is in the negative, except that a firm of engineers was granted, some considerable time ago, permission to use the castings of the company. The answer to the second part is in the affirmative, and to the third in the negative. As regards the fourth part of the question, the Admiralty does not in all cases specify the use of new metals.

Major WEDGWOOD

Are we to understand that this firm of Trubridge is allowed to use scrap castings for making ingots, and other firms are not so allowed?

Dr. MACNAMARA

No, I think not. Perhaps the hon. and gallant Gentleman will look at the answer. If it is not quite clear I shall be glad to confer with him. That is not the intention.

Major WEDGWOOD

Do the Admiralty allow scrap castings to be used in any case?

Dr. MACNAMARA

We do not specify new metals in every case—that is new in reference to this, or any particular firm.