HC Deb 29 March 1928 vol 215 cc1338-9 The following question stood on the Order Paper in the name of Brigadier-General Sir HENRY CROFT: 46. "To ask the Prime Minister whether his attention has been called to the number of contracts which have been placed by municipal authorities and public utility companies for foreign plant and equipment; and whether, in view of the financial burden upon taxpayers and ratepayers in relief of unemployment, he will take steps to see that State allowance and State grants are only made to those authorities who purchase British goods when such are available.
Sir H. CROFT

Before the right hon. Gentleman answers this question I should like to explain that I should have said "State allowances and credit." If that alters the answer, perhaps the right hon. Gentleman will allow me to withdraw the question.

Mr. CHAMBERLAIN

Perhaps my hon. and gallant Friend will see whether it does alter the answer. I have been asked to reply. Circulars have been issued on a number of occasions to local authorities urging the use of British goods and materials wherever reasonably practicable, and Government grants towards unemployment relief works are conditional upon the use of British materials.

Sir H. CROFT

Have the Cabinet lately considered this whole question in view of the fact that enormous grants are made in various directions? Is there any definite policy that they should not be made unless British materials are used?

Mr. CHAMBERLAIN

That question is beyond the scope of my own Department, and I must ask the hon. and gallant Member to put it down.

Mr. AUSTEN HOPKINSON

Will the right hon. Gentleman take into consideration the fact that there is a complete ring in certain materials supplied to local authorities—that extraordinary prices are charged in order to subsidise exports to our foreign customers at a lower price?

Sir H. CROFT

Will the right hon. Gentleman also take into consideration the fact that the hon. Member is not a member of the Conservative party?