HC Deb 23 February 1920 vol 125 cc1333-4W
Mr. GLANVILLE

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Munitions why an official of the Ministry was on the Profiteering Committee; if this official has been withholding information from that Committee; and whether all files and documents appertaining to quinine in the Foreign Office, Ministry of Munitions, and the War Office (Contracts Branch) were submitted to the Committee?

Mr. KELLAWAY

An official of the Ministry conversant with the dealings in quinine was asked by the Board of Trade to serve on the Committee of Enquiry. So far as the Ministry of Munitions (War Office Contracts Section) is concerned, no information was withheld.

Mr. GLANVILLE

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Munitions whether he has any statement to make as to the quinine transaction conducted by his Department with the British Quinine Corporation, which transaction is adversely criticised in the Board of Trade Profiteering Report?

Mr. KELLAWAY

The Report to which my hon. Friend refers has been published, and I do not think it calls for any statement.

Mr. GLANVILLE

asked the Minister of Munitions whether Mr. Abrahamson rendered valuable services to' the associated Governments during the War in connection with obtaining quinine supplies at a time when they were urgently needed for tropical campaigns; and whether His Majesty's Government has awarded Mr. Abrahamson any recognition for those services which were rendered by him in the capacity of a second lieutenant?

Mr. KELLAWAY

Mr. Abrahamson was attached to the Contracts Branch of the War Office from September, 1917, to April, 1918, and rendered good service in connection with the supply of quinine for the Army. Whilst so employed, he held the rank and drew the pay of a second lieutenant. His services were of considerable value to the Army, but, as was the case with many other officers, no special recognition was awarded him.