HC Deb 09 May 1939 vol 347 cc282-3
40. Mr. Stokes

asked the Secretary of State for War what was the average contract price of 3.45-inch shells made from bar ordered from firms not normally engaged in armament manufacture during the latter half of 1936; how many of those contracts were at a figure above 17s. 6d. per shell; and how many of those contracts have been renewed year by year since they were first placed, and at what average price?

Sir V. Warrender

It is contrary to practice to disclose prices paid under contracts; but, in actual fact, no 3.45-inch shell was made from bar by any firm not normally engaged in armament manufacture.

Mr. Stokes

Is the Minister aware that in 1936 contracts for 3.45-inch shells were let at 22s. 6d. a piece, and is it known, to him that, using the proper machinery, it is possible to manufacture these shells, including a wide margin of profit, at 14s. a piece?

Sir V. Warrender

The hon. Gentleman asked me for particulars of firms which are not usually armament manufacturers who manufacture these shells for 17s. 6d. I said that there have not been any such cases.

Mr. Stokes

Were any contracts let to any firms at 22s. 6d. in 1936, as it is not giving information to an enemy?

Sir V. Warrender

Perhaps the hon. Member will put that question down.

Mr. Lawson

Why should not the House have information of this character?

Sir V. Warrender

It is a long established practice not to disclose contract prices.

Mr. Garro Jones

Was not that practice established before the days of combines and telephones when manufacturers could not get into touch with each other as they do to-day and find out what each one is tendering?