HC Deb 29 March 1955 vol 539 c180
4. Mr. Crouch

asked the Minister of Works when the last purchase of glass ash-trays was made for use in the Palace of Westminster; and the cost and country of origin.

Mr. Bevins

Two dozen glass ash-trays were bought from a British manufacturer in July, 1954, at 3s. bd. each.

Mr. Crouch

Is my hon. Friend aware that I have seen ash-trays here marked " Made in Germany "? Surely, as long as supplies are available, we should use British furnishings in the Palace of Westminster?

Mr. Bevins

These ash-trays were used in the area under the jurisdiction of the Kitchen Committee, and were not the responsibility of my right hon. Friend. I cannot speak for the fiscal policy of the Committee but its financial policy has worked out all right.

Mr. Daises

Is the Minister aware that on the other side of the balance sheet we still have, in the bathroom, hair brushes from Victorian days?