§ 42. Mr. Royleasked the Minister of Works what steps he is taking, pending examination by the Monopolies Commission, to prevent firms from submitting the same tender for steel door frames for council housing estate contracts, and thus creating a price ring.
§ Mr. EcclesI am not aware that the prices quoted for steel door frames are unreasonable.
§ Mr. RoyleIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that Salford City Council invited tenders for steel door frames to serve 48 flats and received five replies all quoting the exact figure of £971 15s. 9d.? Is the Minister not prepared to take some action to show these firms that he completely disapproves of this method of trading?
§ Mr. EcclesI am not aware of that fact, but I will look into it. What I am aware of is that since the control of prices for these frames was ended in June last, they have been reduced by 3¾ per cent.