§ 58. Mr. Leonardasked the Minister of Supply what machinery exists in Scotland to co-ordinate the work of his officials who select contractors as suitable for Government work and the officials responsible for processing and inspection?
§ The Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Supply (Mr. Harold Macmillan)The position of Scotland in this matter is no different from that of the rest of the country. The selection of contractors is done in the case of new firms after an assessment of their capacity by representatives of the production departments of the Ministry, in consultation with 841 the area officer. At all times the production and inspection staffs work in close conjunction. With regard to the strengthening of local machinery generally, my right hon. Friend made a full reply on 26th June to a Question by the hon. Member for Stoke (Mr. Ellis Smith).
§ Mr. LeonardIf I give illustrations to the hon. Gentleman of lack of co-ordination in the matter, will he take them up?
§ Mr. MacmillanCertainly, Sir.
Mr. DavidsonWhat steps are taken by the area committee in Glasgow to make known to contractors in that area the requirements of the Minister? Is the hon. Gentleman aware that very few contractors in Glasgow know anything about the area committee?
§ Mr. MacmillanThe answer is that the function of the committee is to advise the area board. With regard to the general question, my information is that a very high percentage, rising to as much as 95 per cent. of the engineering capacity of Glasgow, has already been utilised by Supply Departments.
§ Mr. StokesCan the hon. Gentleman say how often that area committee has met?