§ 69. Mr. Kellyasked the Minister for the Co-ordination of Defence the number of firms in this country engaged by the Government on the manufacture of mosquito nets, and the number of firms abroad engaged by the Government on the same class of work?
§ Captain Dugdale (Lord of the Treasury)I have been asked to reply. My right hon. Friend is informed that the firms who manufacture mosquito netting in this country are some 16 in number, and that at present some six of these are executing Government contracts for this store. No headquarter contracts are normally placed with firms abroad, though it may happen in times such as the recent emergency that a small local purchase is made on the authority of a local command.
§ Mr. KellyIn view of the shortage of employment in the plain net trade at this particular time, and the fact that orders are being given abroad, can further consideration be given to this matter?
§ Mr. Malcolm MacMillanCould the hon. Member inform us whether there is any relation between mosquito nets and the weather we are having now?