§ 54. Sir G. Gibsonasked the Minister of Supply whether any decision has been reached for the absorption of the large stocks of leather originally sold to the French Government through the Ministry of Supply, for the making into boots for the French forces, now lying in the hands of English tanners or the utilisation of those stocks in the manufacture of boots for the Home Guard?
§ Mr. H. MorrisonArrangements are being made to absorb, as far as possible, in satisfaction of Government requirements, the leather originally bought by the French Government and suitable for Service purposes, but I am not yet able to say whether it will be possible to use the whole quantity.
§ Sir G. GibsonIf no decision has been arrived at by the Minister, what is to happen to those who are holding the supplies and have not received payment for them?
§ Mr. MorrisonThe Question on the Paper is whether we are absorbing them as far as we need them. That is what 1305 we are doing. If there is a surplus, that will be a matter for separate consideration.
§ Sir G. GibsonIs the right hon. Gentleman not aware that these orders were placed by the French Buying Commission through the Ministry of Supply, and therefore it is the responsibility of his Department? Will he take over these goods still in the hands of English tanners who are not receiving payment in the meantime?
§ Mr. MorrisonI could not say without notice whether the orders were actually placed with the Ministry of Supply. In any case they were placed by the French Government. It would be unwise in answer to a Question to assume financial responsibility for orders placed on behalf of another Government. I will look into the point.