HC Deb 21 January 1930 vol 234 cc21-2
29. Mr. D. G. SOMERVILLE

asked the Lord Privy Seal whether any contracts have yet been placed in this country on account of work in connection with the Zambesi Bridge scheme?

Mr. THOMAS

Orders have been placed for a certain amount of material in connection with the approach railways. It is hoped that the main contract will be placed at the beginning of May.

Mr. SOMERVILLE

Have the final plans been approved and passed for the construction of the bridge?

Mr. THOMAS

I believe that is so, and the tenders, we anticipate, will be let in May.

Mr. ANNESLEY SOMERVILLE

Seeing that the Zambesi Bridge will be in Portuguese territory, will the Lord Privy Seal take steps to provide for the employment of as much British labour as possible?

Mr. THOMAS

The aspect of the question that we are mainly concerned with is that the very important contracts for the steel should be given in this country. It is rather in that direction that I am concentrating.