HC Deb 18 March 1940 vol 358 cc1652-3W
Mr. J. Griffiths

asked the First Commissioner of Works the reasons for the supply of bricks for Government establishments in South Wales being brought into the area from Peterborough whilst local firms are capable of supplying the demand; and whether, having regard to this and to the wasteful use of wagons urgently needed for other purposes, he will secure that these contracts are placed in the area of the building?

Mr. Ramsbotham

Building contracts made by my Department leave with the contractors the responsibility for obtaining bricks, subject to the approval of officers of the Department as regards quality. The contractors naturally buy in the cheapest market, taking all costs into consideration. Very large numbers of local bricks have been used on schemes being carried out by my Department in South Wales, and I will give the hon. Member detailed information with regard to any specific case in which he thinks there may be cause for compliant if he will communicate with me.