§ 93. Mr. R. GWYNNEasked the Secretary to the Admiralty whether contracts have been entered into since the outbreak of war by his Department with the firm of 874 Suter, Hartmann, and Rahtjens Composition Company, Limited; and, if so, will he inquire whether those mainly interested in the business were born in Germany of German parents?
§ Dr. MACNAMARAThe answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. As regards the second part, the directors of the Red Hand Compositions, Limited, which is, I understand, the present style of the company, are seven in number; of these, four are natural-born British subjects; the remaining three are believed to have been born in Germany and have become naturalised British subjects, two in 1877 and one in 1883. A majority of the shares are stated to be held by the family represented by the three naturalised British directors, the remainder by natural-born British subjects.
§ Mr. GWYNNEWill the right hon. Gentleman endeavour, if possible, to give preference to British-born persons, rather than to naturalised or German-born subjects?
§ Dr. MACNAMARAI think this case has been before the Board of Trade.
§ Mr. GWYNNEAre we to understand that any firm can now change its name, trade under another name, and get the full advantages and privileges which are given to British-born subjects?
§ Dr. MACNAMARAI think the question ought to be addressed to the President of the Board of Trade.