HC Deb 26 February 1940 vol 357 cc1730-2
30. Mr. Herbert Morrison

asked the Minister of Supply whether he is aware that certain persons are asking firms to sign contracts or enter into arrangements providing for a commission to be paid to them on orders received from the Ministry of Supply; and whether, as such practice leads to higher prices being quoted in order that the commission may be provided for, he will take steps to suppress it?

Mr. Burgin

Yes, Sir, my attention has on several occasions been drawn to this practice. My hon. Friend the Parliamentary Secretary and I have taken such opportunities as have been open to us to state publicly that no firm desiring contracts with the Ministry need employ the services of intermediaries; and that direct access to the Ministry officials is readily obtainable if an appointment is made. The area offices are available to firms at a distance from London. In some cases recently I have asked for police investigation of activities of this kind which appeared to present specially undesirable features, and the whole question of strengthening the existing law on the subject is now under consideration.

Mr. Morrison

Can the Minister say whether such a practice is in any way, recognised or permitted by the Ministry? He has used words to the effect that the order need not be placed through this channel. Is he aware that I have in my hand two draft agreements of firms offering these services, and that I have been informed that such firms have been effective in securing business or inquiries on behalf of the Ministry? Will he say that the Ministry does not recognise any such activities, and will he take proceedings in any such cases?

Mr. Burgin

I should like to take the most emphatic method open to me to state that this practice is not desired by the Ministry in any shape or form. I have no idea of the documents the right hon. Gentleman has in his hand, nor do I recognise the type of document to which he refers. The Ministryhave on three occasions issued elaborate Press notices stating that nothing of this kind is desired, and that they do not either wish, or recognise, any of these practices to be pursued. The right hon. Gentleman has asked me if I will take proceedings. The reference in my answer to strengthening the existing law meant a desire on my part to find a method by which such proceedings would lie.

Mr. Thurtle

Does the Minister mean that he has received from the police evidence showing that this practice has been going on, and that he has been told by the police that there is no law under which proceedings can be taken?

Mr. Burgin

It would not be the police who would advise me on the law. I have received information from various sources that there are people seeking commissions in the manner indicated in the Question. My answer was meant to mean that in connection with the authorities one is endeavouring to find a method by which such conduct may be made criminal.

Mr. Morrison

If it be the case, as I submit it is, as I have evidence, and the Minister says that such firms are seeking business on commission on behalf of the Ministry, does not he see that it is a clear case of attempted bribery and corruption? Does he not think it is the duty of the Department to proceed against these people and any civil servants involved, if there be any, and to attempt to stamp the practice out?

Mr. Burgin

If there is any evidence brought to me of anything of the kind I will have it examined and submitted to the Director of Public Prosecutions. Nothing of the kind has been brought to me which comes within the criminal law.

Mr. Morrison

I would gladly submit the information I have to the Minister, in conjunction with the right hon. and learned Gentleman, but I must reserve on behalf of the Opposition the right to raise this matter if necessary.