§ 8. Mr. Hamlingasked the Secretary of State for Defence what steps he is taking to apply the policy of preferred source in the awarding of contracts by his Department to Royal Ordnance factories.
§ Mr. ReynoldsThe Departmental investigation which my right hon. Friend announced on 21st December is now examining the application of this policy in the Ministry as a whole, to see whether more work can be obtained for the factories.
§ Mr. HamlingCan my hon. Friend give the House an assurance that we shall have an early report on this inquiry?
§ Mr. ReynoldsThe Committee is at present examining evidence. The House will be informed of what action my right hon. Friend decides to take as a result.