§ 38. Brigadier Terence Clarkeasked the Minister of Works why large quantities of 2219 folding chairs were ordered by his Department from Italy when such work could have been done by disabled persons in this country.
§ Mr. EcclesThe purchase was made in pursuance of a policy designed to relieve pressure on manufacturers in this country in connection with the defence programme.
§ Brigadier ClarkeDoes the Minister realise that it is that sort of effort which brought our sterling balances to their present low state?
§ Mr. EcclesI understand that at the time there was a credit with Europe and that the purchase of the chairs was made at a cost two-thirds below the lowest tender in this country.