8. Mr. TYSON WILSONasked the Pensions Minister whether, when an application is made by the widow of a 480 soldier for a grant from the King's Fund to enable her to obtain a sewing machine it is a condition, if a grant is made, that the machine has to be one of the Singer Manufacturing Company's make; and, if so, whether he will in future allow these widows to choose the make of machine that they prefer?
§ Sir L. WORTHINGTON-EVANSThe answer to the first part, of this question is in the negative. I understand, however, that the trustees of the fund have frequently suggested to local committees that they should purchase Singer machines owing to the exceptionally favourable terms offered to the trustees by that company.
Mr. WILSONIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that these most favourable terms mean that over £11 is paid for a Singer machine when they can buy one equally as good for £5 or £6?
§ Sir L. WORTHINGTON - EVANSI am not aware of that, but if the hon. Gentleman will give me any information as to where those equally good machines can be obtained, I will forward it to the trustees.
Mr. WILSONWill the right hon. Gentleman make it quite clear to the war pensions committees that they have the power to buy these as well as the Singers?
§ Sir L. WORTHINGTON-EVANSThey have not the power to buy any machine at all. This is a grant from the King's Fund.
Mr. WILSONWill the right hon. Gentleman inform those responsible for administering the fund that these cheaper machines can be got and that some women can work them a great deal more easily than they can work the Singer?
§ Sir L. WORTHINGTON - EVANSThat is what I ask the hon. Gentleman to give me information about. I will pass on to the King's Fund any information he can give me.