§ 8. Mr. Maclayasked the Minister of Works if he is aware that, on 13th February, Messrs. A. Gordon, Limited, Montrose, applied through the burgh surveyor for certificates to purchase six pairs of 1773 thigh-length rubber boots for use on under waterlevel work at a sewer, which was granted by the Department of Health for Scotland, on 22nd February, and forwarded by the firm to his Department in London; that on 1st March the firm was instructed by his Department to apply to the Inspector of Factories, Dundee; that this was done, but on 11th March they were instructed to apply for thigh boots to the Department of Health for Scotland through the Burgh Surveyor, Montrose; and on what date the firm finally received the necessary certificates.
§ Mr. TomlinsonYes, Sir; owing to an unfortunate mistake in my Department the necessary permits were not issued until 13th March. and I am glad to have this opportunity of expressing my regret for the trouble occasioned to the firm.
§ Mr. MaclayWhile thanking the Minister for his expression of. regret, may I ask him to state categorically whether it is now known who is responsible for the issue of these certificates?
§ Mr. TomlinsonWe hope to simplify the permit procedure with the help of the Board of Trade.