HC Deb 10 June 1969 vol 784 c1207
5. Mr. Eadie

asked the Minister of Public Building and Works if he will issue a statement outlining the result of the meeting his head of purchasing organisation had with the Federation of British Carpet Manufacturers.

Mr. Loughlin

There has been a useful exchange of views and the Department is now awaiting suggestions from the Federation on possible future arrangements for discount contracts.

Mr. Eadie

Is my hon. Friend aware that a carpet firm in my constituency was very dissatisfied with the reorganisation of the contracts? Is he now telling the House that, as a consequence of this meeting, the disquiet of this firm can now be resolved?

Mr. Loughlin

The question with which we are dealing is part and parcel of a new policy in our purchasing section to get it running on the most efficient lines, so that we get the best value for money. The firm which my hon. Friend mentioned will be considered when new contracts are ready and are being arranged. Scotland generally should get a greater proportion of the purchases, because three of the six firms now holding discount contracts are north of the Border.