§ 75. Mr. RAPERasked if the Break Clause has been imposed in the case of all contracts which were in force when the Armistice was signed for the supply of aeroplanes, engines, and spare parts; and whether in any case the imposition of this Break Clause has been subsequently varied?
Mr. HOPEThe Break Clause has been imposed on all contracts for aeroplanes, seaplanes, engines and spare parts, in force at the date of the Armistice, with the exception of contracts for certain of the latest types of machines and engines, which the Ministry of Munitions has requested by the Air Ministry to complete, and of contracts for obsolete types where 1073 it has been thought preferable to stop work rather than to incur expenditure during the Break period. The quantities to be delivered under the Break Clause have, in many cases, been varied, after investigation of the work in progress, in order to secure the greatest economy, having regard to the expenditure already incurred, and the value of the articles when completed.
Mr. HOPEI think that would be too long. Perhaps my hon. Friend will communicate with me on that matter.
§ 76. Mr. RAPERasked why the system which was adopted of allowing contractors a certain profit on materials supplied to them by the Government was made retrospective?
Mr. HOPEFrom the form of the question it is not possible to identify the system to which my hon. Friend refers. If he will supply me with further particulars I will have inquiries made.