§ Mr. HANNONasked the Secretary of State for War why a contract was recently completed by his Department with a French firm for the supply of brandy, although tenders were received from firms offering South African brandy of superior quality at a slightly higher price; and if he will in future give preferential consideration to brandy of Empire origin?
§ Mr. SHAWThe last contract for brandy was placed by the War Office in March, 1930. Two offers of South African produce were received, but the samples submitted could not be accepted as satisfactory for hospital use. In these circumstances, there was no alternative to the purchase of French brandy. The War Department is always prepared to give preference to Empire over foreign supplies if quality and price are satisfactory.