HC Deb 29 March 1926 vol 193 cc1643-4
52. Mr. RAMSDEN

asked the Under-Secretary of State for the Home Department, as representing the First Commissioner of Works, whether ho can state what safeguards are taken to see that all contractors having contracts with his Department supply only British goods?

Captain HACKING (for The FIRST COMMISSIONER of WORKS)

It is the normal practice of the Department to specify that goods supplied shall wherever possible be of British manufacture, and it is the duty of the officers of the Department to see that goods are delivered in accordance with the specification. In certain oases, however, it is difficult to ensure absolutely that the goods are of British origin, and in these cases considerable reliance must be placed on the undertaking given by contractors and makers as to the country of origin. Any malpractice in this direction would involve immediate removal from the list of contractors.

Commander WILLIAMS

When they do come from foreign countries, will the hon. and gallant Gentleman have the Fair Wages Clause inserted in the contracts?

Captain HACKING

Perhaps my hon. and gallant Friend will give me notice of that question.