§ 6. Mr. Ridleyasked the Minister of Aviation what regulations are in force in his Department with regard to the means of delivery to be employed for goods or supplies that are ordered by the Department.
§ Mr. SnowThe current regulations state that the primary considerations to be taken into account are the suitability of a particular form of transport for the traffic concerned, its availability, and the need to give prompt and efficient service.
§ Mr. RidleyIs the hon. Gentleman aware that there appears to be a rule that the bulk of supplies have to go by rail, thereby incurring expensive packing for delicate equipment and machinery and vast extra cost? Will he sweep away this ossified Luddism and reintroduce the system that the cheapest be always chosen?
§ Mr. SnowNo, Sir. Under the reforms and reconsideration of the regulations which this Government have undertaken, consignments of really delicate material are given special consideration.