§ 68. Major CHAPPLEasked the Under secretary of State for War whether a contract for the catering at the Crystal Palace is let to one firm; whether this firm is permitted to cater in cafés and canteens in the immediate vicinity for private profit; whether he has had any complaints to the effect that the condition of the contract tables offers an inducement to the men to resort to the others; and, if so, whether he will make any change in the arrangements?
§ Dr. MACNAMARAThe contract for supplying meals for naval ratings at the Crystal Palace is held by a firm who also are required by the Admiralty to run a canteen in the Palace for the convenience of the men. In addition, with the knowledge of the Admiralty, the contractors have continued to keep open a restaurant which they had running when the Palace was open to the public and which is now available for the use of the naval ratings and for their visitors. No complaints of the nature suggested have been received. If any should arise, they will, of course, be at once dealt with.