29. Mr. J. J. Davidsonasked the Secretary of State for Air the total number of Scottish building firms that have been invited to tender for Air Ministry contracts in England and Scotland, respectively, during the present year?
§ Sir K. WoodI find that practically all the Scottish building firms on the Air Ministry list have been invited to tender for work in Scotland or England during the current year, and Scottish firms are also regularly invited to tender for structural steelwork in both countries.
§ Mr. MathersCan the Minister say how these firms are distributed throughout Scotland? Is he aware of the desire in the east as well as in the west of Scotland for this work?
§ Sir K. WoodWe have to go where the firms happen to be situated. If the hon. Member has any case he would like me to look into, I will inquire into it.
Mr. DavidsonCan the Minister indicate the number of Scottish firms compared with the number of English firms who are allowed to quote for tenders?
§ Sir K. WoodNo, Sir, as I have said, we apply to practically all the Scottish firms, so I hope Scotland is satisfied.
§ Mr. R. GibsonDoes the expression "building firms" include manufacturers of concrete erections and installations, and, if not, will he see that such firms are included among those invited to tender?
§ Sir K. WoodI will inquire and communicate with the hon. Member.
§ Sir John HaslamDoes my right hon. Friend include Scottish firms domiciled in England?
§ Sir K. WoodI have covered that in my answer.