HC Deb 12 November 1928 vol 222 cc504-5
83. Captain CROOKSHANK

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty if he will take steps to see that in future no contracts are placed by the Admiralty without making it a condition that all subcontracts must be open to tender by British manufacturers?

The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the ADMIRALTY (Lieut.-Colonel Headlam)

In all important contracts steps are taken to ensure that items subcontracted for are of British manufacture where practicable. This policy does not, however, apply to plant used by a contractor, for the reasons stated in reply to the question of my hon. Friend the Member for Stroud (Sir F. Nelson) on 8th November (0;:Ticrin. REPORT, Column 225).

Captain CROOKSHANK

Is the hon. and gallant Gentleman aware that some of the Singapore sub-contracts were placed abroad without such tenders, and is he aware of the very deplorable results on British industry, particularly in Lincolnshire?

Lieut.-Colonel HEADLAM

I am not aware that that is the case. If the hon. and gallant Gentleman will draw my attention to the particular contract, I will look into it.

Mr. HAYES

Does the Admiralty buy bronze wire?

Lieut.-Colonel HEADLAM

I must have notice of that question.