HC Deb 09 April 1936 vol 310 cc2946-7
63. Miss WARD

asked the Parlia mentary Secretary to the Admiralty the total tonnage allocated since 1931 to date to the Tyne and the Clyde, respectively?

The CIVIL LORD of the ADMIRALTY (Mr. Kenneth Lindsay)

During the period from 1st January, 1932, to 31st March, 1936, warship orders allocated to the Clyde district amounted to approximately 94,750 tons, and to the Tyne 48,800 tons.

Miss WARD

Referring to the reply which was given yesterday on the subject of tenders, am I to understand that the Admiralty has altered its usual principle of allocating orders only on the question of price?

Mr. LINDSAY

I hardly think that question arises, but the general ratio of two to one, which is comparable with the relative figures of the five years before the War, is still being maintained.

Miss WARD

Will that apply also to the three years prior to the War?

Mr. LINDSAY

It applies to an adequate period of time; in statistical matters it is very dangerous to take too short a period.