§ 20. Mr. Willisasked the Minister of Public Building and Works what was the total value of stores purchased in Scotland in the year 1962–63; what is the estimate for the current financial year; and what proportion of total purchases this represents in each of those years.
§ Mr. SharplesThe figure for 1962–63 was £1,370,000 or something over 10 per cent. of the total purchases made. It is not possible to give the figures for the current financial year as many contracts have still to be let.
§ Mr. WillisIs the Minister aware that we are quite pleased that at least it is over 10 per cent., but can he do even better than that?
§ Mr. SharplesRegarding Scotland's share in the general arrangements to help development districts, firms in these districts are invited to tender, and on all suitable occasions preference is given to them, provided that no additional expense is incurred.