HC Deb 27 June 1955 vol 543 cc24-5
32. Mr. K. Thompson

asked the Minister of Supply why his tender form, No. 5533, calls for delivery of 525,000 yards of calico over a period of three months, which limits the number of mills able to submit offers.

Mr. Maudling

A delivery period of three months was necessary to meet the War Office's requirement. Tenders have been received from 29 of the 31 firms invited.

Mr. Thompson

In the event of some of these tenders being for less than the full amount, will they nevertheless be considered in the allocation of the total?

Mr. Maudling

Yes, certainly.

33. Mr. K. Thompson

asked the Minister of Supply in what circumstances he authorises the purchase of imported cotton cloth, when similar material can be produced in this country.

Mr. Maudling

No purchase of imported cotton cloth has been made by the Ministry of Supply during the past few years. My Department is fully conscious of the importance to the home industry of Government orders.

Mr. Thompson

Would my right hon. Friend add to that assurance the assurance that, in the event of the tenders referred to in Question 32 not reaching the total figure required in the limited time stated, he will not include purchases of some imported material?

Mr. Maudling

That seems to be a hypothetical question, particularly as 29 of the 31 firms invited to tender have tendered.