§ Sir F. SYKESasked the Secretary of State for Air whether, prior to placing orders abroad for parachutes for the Royal Air Force, British firms were asked to tender for the supply of Royal Air Force requirements on contract conditions placing on the manufacturer liability, if any, in respect of patent rights; and whether such provision is a customary feature of Air Ministry contracts?
§ Sir S. HOAREThe parachutes on order for the Royal Air Force are a proprietary article, and the contract was not placed as the result of competitive tendering. In the case of competitive tenders being invited for the supply of proprietary articles, it is usual for the Department to assume responsibility for infringement of patent rights.