64. Mr. Leeasked the Minister of Education, as representing the Minister for Science, whether he has approved the terms of a contract estimated at £1,750,000. entered into by the Atomic Energy Authority with an unnamed manufacturer, to supply a chemical unobtainable in bulk from any other firm, on conditions which guarantee a minimum profit of 17 per cent. in the first year rising to 45 per cent. in the fifth year; what efforts are being made to provide alternative supplies; and whether he will make a statement.
§ Sir D. EcclesI understand that the Public Accounts Committee will shortly have the opportunity of hearing evidence on the Comptroller and Auditor General's Report from the Accounting Officer for the Atomic Energy Vote and the Chairman of the Atomic Energy Authority. I feel sure the House would wish to await the outcome of the Committee's deliberations.