§ Mr. D. SOMERVILLEasked the Financial Secretary to the Treasury what sales of surplus War supplies have been effected since January, 1923, specifying their nature and value, and the countries where the sales have been effected?
§ Major BOYD-CARPENTERThe Disposal and Liquidation Commission have2594W sold considerable quantities of surplus War supplies at home and abroad (including India, Iraq, Egypt, Palestine, Turkey, and Malta) since 1st January last, but I regret that it is not feasible, with the depleted staff available, to furnish the return called for in the question. I am arranging for a White Paper dealing with the work of the Commission generally up to 31st March last to be laid on the Table during the course of the next few weeks.
§ Sir W. de FRECEasked the Financial Secretary to the Treasury whether special efforts are now being made to dispose of the balance of surplus War material and thus permit the entire elimination of the staff now employed on the work?
§ Major BOYD-CARPENTERThe answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. As regards the second part, my hon. Friend will realise that even when all the surplus material has been sold certain staffs will be required to give delivery of the goods and to administer the contracts.