HC Deb 25 February 1942 vol 378 cc180-1
9. Mr. A. Edwards

asked the Secretary of State for Air the names of local contractors who were invited to tender for work recently begun at a certain aerodrome?

The Secretary of State for Air (Sir Archibald Sinclair)

I am advised that it is not customary in the case of Government contracts to divulge the names of firms whose tenders are unsuccessful.

Mr. Edwards

Is the right hon. Baronet aware that the Parliamentary Secretary told me last week that they always gave an opportunity for local contractors to tender? In this case I have made inquiries and find that no local contractors have had the opportunity. Will the right hon. Baronet look further into it and give me the names privately if he cannot give them in the House?

Sir A. Sinclair

Certainly I will look into it again, but I am informed that two local contractors tendered. If that is contrary to the hon. Member's informa- tion, perhaps he will communicate with me.

Mr. Edwards

Could I have the names of those two firms?

Sir A. Sinclair

indicated assent.

Mr. Thorne

Is the right hon. Baronet aware that many years ago the names of contractors used to appear in the Ministry of Labour "Gazette" but not the amount of the tender?

Mr. Stokes

Is the right hon. Baronet aware that this is about the only country remaining where the antiquated system of not publishing names is maintained?