HC Deb 19 June 1940 vol 362 cc163-4
49. Mr. Stokes

asked the Minister of Supply on what grounds Sir Alexander Gibb and Partners have been appointed as consulting engineers and agents to his Ministry; and what are the conditions of their appointment and the fees to be paid them?

Mr. H. Morrison

Sir Alexander Gibb and Partners were employed last autumn as consulting engineers in respect of three specific factories only. They were selected because they were regarded as being the most suitable firm for the work. Messrs. Gibb will receive an annual fee of £15,000 in addition to the approved expenditure incurred by them.

Mr. Stokes

Is the Minister aware that there is grave concern in the engineering world on account of this appointment? With all respect to the competence of the firm, would it not be a good thing if the Minister would cause to be removed from their letter-heading the statement that they are appointed consulting engineers and agents for the Ministry of Supply?

Mr. Morrison

In respect of these particular factories that would be true, but if the letter-heading has a wider implication, I will certainly consider the point. The hon. Member will appreciate that the appointment was made some time ago. I have no reason to believe it was a wrong appointment, but I will give consideration to the point to which the hon. Member has drawn attention.

Mr. J. Griffiths

In view of the fact that the workpeople of this country have been asked, and are willing, to make very great sacrifices, will the Minister bear in mind that the publication of figures of the sort he has mentioned does cause grave concern?

Mr. Morrison

I have published the figures because the hon. Member asked a Question on the matter. The Question being asked, I do not think I had any right to refuse to answer it. Certainly, the point which the hon. Member for Llanelly (Mr. J. Griffiths) has mentioned is a relevant one. Of course, these are fees for highly specialised professional services, and I understand they are in the region of what is usually paid. I will keep in mind the point he has made.

Mr. Griffiths

Will the Minister bear in mind that the working classes of this country, the miners, for example, are sacrificing customs that have been established for hundreds of years, and are dismayed when other people are paid such fees?

Mr. Morrison

That is a fair point. This is an appointment which I did not make myself, but one must face the realities of the position all round. I entirely agree with my hon. Friend that those other considerations are relevant.

Mr. Kirkwood

It this a full-time job?

Mr. Morrison

It is a very big job. It is the building of three very big factories that will run to a very high cost.

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