§ 12. Mr. R. Gibsonasked the Secretary of State for Air to what extent the business books of the sub-contracting firm are open to the scrutiny of his accountants, in all cases where there is subcontracting, with regard to a Government contract; and whether the terms of the sub-contract itself are disclosed to his accountants?
§ Sir K. WoodIt is the normal practice of my Department to include in all negotiated contracts provision for the supervision of sub-contract prices where the items are substantial, and for Departmental access to sub-contractors' works and records for the purpose of making 1959 independent costs estimates. As regards the second part of the Question, no difficulty has been experienced in obtaining any requisite information.
§ Mr. GibsonDoes the right hon. Gentleman's Department require the disclosure of any interest that the contracting firm may have in the sub-contracting firm?
§ Sir K. WoodPerhaps the hon. and learned Gentleman will put that question down.