§ 25. Mr. HIGHAMasked if all the British shell dumps in France have been disposed of; and, if not, is the Government ready to receive tenders for these shell dumps?
§ The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the MINISTRY OF MUNITIONS (Mr. James Hope)The answer to the first part of the question is in the negative. The greater part of the ammunition in the forward areas has now been collected into the five breaking-down factories and the two depots serving them. The French Section of the Disposal Board is prepared to dispose of these factories and the whole of the surplus ammunition, and will be pleased to receive offers from any person who may be interested in their purchase.
Sir F. HALLWill the Disposals Board take care that in future, when any of these dumps are offered for sale, they will be properly shown to any prospective buyers and not hidden up, as was the case with regard to one last year?
§ Mr. HOPEI am quite certain that the Disposals Board will take care that they are properly shown, but I do not understand in the least what my hon. Friend is referring to when he says that one of these dumps was not shown.
Sir F. HALLIs the hon. Gentleman aware that in the case of one of the sales which took place the dump was not shown to prospective purchasers and—
§ Mr. SPEAKERThe hon. and gallant Gentleman must give notice of that question.