Mr. T. F. RICHARDSasked the Secretary of State for War whether he can state the difference in price per pair of those contractors who were unsuccessful last year, but successful this, in their tenders for blucher boots for the Army; whether the right hon. Gentleman can give the names of the successful contractors for Army bluchers, the price accepted per pair, and the number of pairs ordered from each successful contractor this year; and how many pairs of boots have been ordered from Bristol, Finedon, Chesham, Raunds, Kettering, Ringstead, and Walgrave; and how many pairs have been obtained under 10s. 6d. per pair for hand-sewn?
§ Mr. HALDANE:Such particulars cannot be furnished, as it is the present established practice of the War Department to treat the prices and distribution of specific orders as strictly confidential.