Sir HENRY DALZIELasked the Secretary of State for War whether he is now in a position to state whether extensive auction sales of new motor tyres are taking place under the instructions of the military authorities in South Africa; whether such sales took place under the instructions of the War Office; is it realised that such procedure is very damaging to British industry in South Africa; is he aware that British firms in this country are being commandeered to produce the same tyres as are being disposed of under market prices in South Africa; and what action he has taken in the matter?
§ Mr. FORSTERSales of motor tyres, both old and new, have been held in South Africa, but I cannot say at the moment1452W whether they are still proceeding. These sales were conducted under instructions, from the East African Salvage Commission, which was sent out by the Army Council. I am asking for more detailed information as to the prices obtained, but I understand that local agents for the various makes of tyres attended all the sales, but did not purchase, as they considered the prices realised were too high. I understand that the Government of the Union of South Africa have also held sales, but I am not in a position to give any information in regard to them.