HC Deb 19 May 1924 vol 173 cc1823-4
38. Mr. D. G. SOMERVILLE

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies if there are any firms doing contract work for the Crown Agents who have not fulfilled the conditions of membership of the King's Roll?

Mr. THOMAS

Generally speaking, the Crown Agents do not deal with firms not on the King's Roll, and no new firm which is not on the King's Roll is added to the list. The Crown Agents are, however, required by Colonial Governments from time to time to buy proprietary articles, spare parts and replacements, and other supplies of a special nature, and some exceptions to the general rule, which can only form a very small proportion of the whole, are inevitable.

Mr. SOMERVILLE

Can the right hon. Gentleman state the position with regard to municipalities and local councils in this country?

Mr. SPEAKER

That does not arise from the original question.