49. Lieut.-Colonel Schofieldasked the Minister of Supply whether he is aware that the date of return of three tenders recently made available to the cotton industry, namely Nos. 3357, 3423 and 3479 were extended by three, five, and seven days, respectively, and tenderers were invited to revise their quotations if so desired; whether he can give the reasons for such postponement in each case; and whether, in view of the uneasiness which has been caused by this practice, he will arrange that in the case of future extensions, specific reasons will be given as to why the extension has proved necessary.
§ Mr. SandysI have examined the three cases referred to and am satisfied that it was in the public interest to extend the times for the return of these tenders. It is not the practice to disclose the reasons for such extensions.