§ 46. Lieut.-Commander Fletcherasked the Prime Minister whether all firms engaged in or eligible for Government work, whether head firms or sub-contractors, will have the right of direct access to the Panel of business men set up in connection with supply?
§ The Prime MinisterI would refer the hon. and gallant Member to the answer which I gave yesterday in reply to questions addressed to me by my hon. Friend the Member for East Fife (Mr. Henderson Stewart).
§ Lieut.-Commander FletcherIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that many firms of sub-contractors feel that they are not given a fair opportunity with regard to the Government's rearmament programme and that their complaints in this respect never reach the proper quarters? Will the Panel be adjusted to meet that complaint?
§ The Prime MinisterIt was because of that that the Panel was appointed.
§ Mr. LoganMay I take it that the firms which, during the last six or seven years, have had their applications refused, will receive new consideration if they make application?
§ The Prime MinisterCertainly, they can make application.