§ Mr. JOHN WARDasked the Secretary of State for War what are the conditions under which lamp supplies are tendered for in the Aldershot district, whether by open competition after public advertisement in the local Press or by firms selected by the Army Council; and, if the latter, how many firms are upon the favoured list?
§ Mr. HALDANELamps required at Aldershot are merged in the general requirements of the Army, and obtained by bulk contract made at the War Office, although very occasionally purchases of small value are made locally. Tenders are issued to firms selected for inclusion in the War Office list after full inquiry into their trade capabilities and their reputation as employers. Advertisements are periodically inserted in the public Press inviting makers to apply to be placed on the list, and all applications received at any time are most carefully considered. If the hon. Member knows of any firm who desire to be included in the list I shall be happy to consider their application.