HC Deb 24 July 1929 vol 230 c1277
29. Sir ROBERT GOWER

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether he will give particulars of any contracts entered into by him with non-British firms abroad for the supply of articles for His Majesty's Navy; whether, before placing such orders, he obtained tenders from British manufacturers; and, in the event of his having done so, what were his reasons for not accepting such British tenders?

Mr. AMMON

It is the invariable practice of the Admiralty to obtain tenders from British manufacturers and to give them a substantial measure of preference. I am afraid I cannot give the details asked for as to actual contracts, but I can assure the hon. Member that where adequate British competition exists contracts have not been given to foreign firms.

Mr. DAY

Were the majority of these contracts not placed by the previous Government?

Mr. AMMON

I should require notice of that question.