§ Mr. COMYNS-CARRasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Overseas Trade Department why Messrs. Lyons were given the monopoly of catering at the British Empire Exhibition; and whether he is aware that at many of their less expensive restaurants in the Exhibition it is impossible to obtain a cup of coffee, that supplies of articles which are alleged to be available are frequently short, and that customers are frequently kept waiting for unreasonable periods?
§ Mr. LUNNI am informed by the British Empire Exhibition authorities that Messrs. Lyons were given the monopoly of catering at the Exhibition because after full consideration of the tenders which were made and of the circumstances of the case the Board of Management were satisfied that Messrs. Lyons' offer represented the best terms obtainable consistent with the maintenance of an efficient service. With regard to the second part of the question, I have no information which would support the suggestion made by the hon. Member, but I would remind him that the caterers have already had to deal with daily attendances at the Exhibition ranging from 25,000 to 170,000. I will, however, have the attention of the British Empire Exhibition authorities drawn to this matter.