HC Deb 23 September 1948 vol 456 cc1066-7
7. Mr. Stokes

asked the Minister of Fuel and Power in how many contracts for the working of opencast coal has it been stipulated by his Department as a condition that the successful contractors must purchase from or through his Department or the Ministry of Supply mechanical excavators imported from America.

Mr. Gaitskell

No such stipulation has actually been included in any contract, but, in about 40 cases during the last 12 months, tenders were invited on the understanding that the successful tenderer would purchase excavating plant, usually American, which has been set aside for the site concerned.

Mr. Stokes

Does not my right hon. Friend realise that there is very little difference in his answer from the views expressed in the Question? Is he aware that there are written contracts where this is stipulated, and that contractors have to order a lot more machinery, and waste hard-earned dollars in purchasing American machinery which is not required, in order to cover up a mistake by his Department?

Mr. Gaitskell

There is no question of a mistake in my Department. The matter has been carefully considered, and we have come to the conclusion that the only way to ensure the most economical use of the machinery available is to insist on particular machines being used.

Mr. Stokes

Is my right hon. Friend aware that contractors are forced to buy machinery which they have got already, and to purchase new machines from America, and does he not think that such a stipulation in a contract is highly immoral?

Mr. Gaitskell

I do not think it is immoral at all. We have had no complaints whatever from the contractors.