HC Deb 27 April 1926 vol 194 c1831
Mr. BOWERMAN

asked the Financial Secretary to the Treasury whether the trading accounts of the Government printing works at Harrow, Hare Street, and Cricklewood for the last certified period show that profits have accrued to the State; and, if so, will he state the gross and net profit earned by each of the three establishments?

The FINANCIAL SECRETARY to the TREASURY (Mr. Ronald McNeill)

The last certified accounts, covering the year ended 31st March, 1925 show the following profits: Harrow—gross profit, £92,679, net profit, £63,219; Hare Street—£18,643 and £7,139; Cricklewood—£12,585 and £5,928. Total gross profit,£123,908; net profit, £76,286.

Mr. NAYLOR

Does the right hon. Gentleman regard those returns on State trading as satisfactory?

Mr. McNEILL

I have no reason to think them unsatisfactory.

Mr. A. V. ALEXANDER

Has the net profit been ascertained after provision for sinking fund as well as interest?

Mr. McNEILL

That I could not answer without notice.

Sir J. NALL

In assessing these profits, has the work done for the various Departments been charged at rates which would have been charged by contractors, or have higher prices been credited to the Stationery Office?

Mr. McNEILL

I should require notice of that also.