§ 30. Captain CAZALETasked the Lord Privy Seal whether any substantial contracts have recently been obtained in the Dominions which will be helpful to the iron and steel industry in this country?
Mr. THOMASAll contracts of this kind do not necessarily come to my notice. I am, however, pleased to say that, as a result of arrangements which have recently been concluded, an order for steel rails and various permanent way accessories, amounting to some 45,000 tons, has been placed in this country by the Government of the Union of South Africa.
§ Captain CAZALETCan the right hon. Gentleman say whether, in the arrangement, any preference was given to British steel, or whether the contract was obtained in the face of open competition?
Mr. THOMASA price was submitted by a foreign country. The difficulty of obtaining this contract was brought to my notice. I entered into various arrangements and negotiations which it is not necessary for me to state in detail.
§ Mr. MARJORIBANKSOfficial Secrets Act.
Mr. THOMASThat is a foolish interruption. The people who will benefit by this Order are much more concerned 203 with my success in the negotiations than in bothering about any Official Secrets Act.
§ Mr. CULVERWELLCan the right hon. Gentleman answer the question which has been put to him?