HC Deb 11 May 1970 vol 801 cc230-1W
Mr. Onslow

asked the Secretary of State for Defence when tenders for swill from Aldershot Garrison messes were last invited; and when they are now due to be re-advertised.

Mr. Richard:

Tenders were invited in January, 1969, and a contract was subsequently placed with the successful tenderer to cover a five-year term as from 1st January, 1970. Tenders will not be re-invited until shortly before the current contract expires at the end of 1974. Advertising, though not normal practice, was tried for an earlier contract and did not prove a success. We should, of course, be glad to take note of any firms expressing an interest in tendering in future.