HC Deb 11 February 1942 vol 377 c1520
39. Major Lyons

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty what is the amount of fees paid or credited to the firm of Messrs. T. P. Bennett and Son during the year 1941 by his Department?

Mr. George Hall

The total fees paid to Messrs. T. P. Bennett and Son by the Admiralty for the calendar year 1941 amounted to £22,242.

Major Lyons

Is the Minister aware that this is the same firm that obtained many thousands of pounds in profits for architectural services to the Ministry of Works and Buildings, that a partner of this firm is Director of Works in that Department and receives £250 a year expenses as Director of Works, and will the Minister take some interest in this, matter, which is a gross public scandal?

Mr. Hall

This firm has been employed by the Admiralty for a considerable number of years and has given every satisfaction.

Major Lyons

So would somebody else.

Mr. Hall

It is better to make use of a firm that one knows.

Major Lyons

Does not the Minister thin it is better to trust one he does not know, when the one he knows works for another Ministry—