HC Deb 02 June 1960 vol 624 c1614
16. Mr. W. Hamilton

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what proportion of the orders placed by Government Departments for electronic equipment, currently, goes to firms in Scotland; whether he is aware of the dissatisfaction expressed by Scottish companies in this matter; and whether he will take immediate steps to increase the Scottish proportion.

The Economic Secretary to the Treasury (Mr. Anthony Barber)

The form in which records are kept does not make this information readily available. I understand that a few Scottish firms have complained about Scotland's share of orders, but in the placing of Government contracts preference is given to development districts, and we shall continue to operate these arrangements.

Mr. Hamilton

Will the Economic Secretary look at this again, as I understand that the manufacturers of this equipment in Scotland have complained to the Department about the lack of orders being given to Scottish firms? Will he, at least, see that more work of this nature from the nationalised industries goes to Scotland?

Mr. Barber

As the hon. Gentleman will know, there are two schemes. There is what is known as the general preference scheme, and there is the special preference scheme. I will not weary the House with the details of the schemes now, but a great deal is done for these development areas. If the hon. Member has any specific complaint, I should be very happy to look into it.