§ 18. Mr. Thorneasked the Minister of Aircraft Production whether he can make a statement about the British Manufacture and Research Company, Limited, and the prices charged for work done in connection with aircraft-gun production; why the management of the firm was allowed to prolong the negotiations for a long time until they got all they wanted; whether the gun in question was the design of the firm or of the Ministry; and what prevented the Departments concerned putting Defence Regulation 55 (1) (a) into operation?
The Minister of Aircraft Production (Colonel Llewehin)I am advised that Defence Regulation 55 (1) (a) does not apply to a case of this sort. The design of the gun was a foreign one and the gun was only manufactured here under licence. Negotiations were not prolonged for the reason suggested by my hon. Friend. I understand that arrangements are being made to discuss this matter when the House resumes its Sessions, and I think that it would therefore be inappropriate to make a long statement now. I would, however, add that the company, by way of adjustment of the provisional prices paid, has already refunded a considerable sum to my Department.