HC Deb 09 February 1948 vol 447 c6
10. Mr. William Shepherd

asked the Minister of Supply what is the total volume of stores which have been disposed of by public auction and private tender respectively.

Mr. G. R. Strauss

Up to the end of December, 1947, the Ministry of Supply has sold goods to the value of £22,051,000 by public auction and £202,684,000 by tender in the United Kingdom. In addition, disposals overseas reported so far total 160,000,000, but separate figures are not available for auction and tender

Mr. Shepherd

Why are such a great quantity of stores disposed of by private tender? Why are more of such stores not being offered by public auction?

Mr. Strauss

An increasing proportion of the stores is being offered by public auction, but for some products a tender is more satisfactory.

Mr. Vane

Are battleships being offered by public auction?