§ Mr. Burkeasked the Minister of Supply why contracts for paper supplies for Government Departments are given to agents and not to manufacturers direct?
§ Mr. H. MorrisonIt is the general policy of my Department to place orders for large quantities of paper with manufacturers. In the case of relatively small quantities, however, it is often more expeditious and economical to purchase from agents who hold stocks of suitable materials. In the case of such small quantities, the prices would be much higher and delivery much slower if mills were specially put in operation. There are also certain very special types of paper which have to be imported, and are therefore purchased through agents.
§ Mr. Burkeasked the Minister of Supply to what extent his Department is responsible for paper supplies for the Service Departments?
§ Mr. MorrisonMy Department undertakes through the Paper control the general responsibility for ensuring that paper will be available for all essential needs. The responsibility for the purchase of ordinary types of paper for Government Departments, including the Service Departments, rests with His Majesty's Stationery Office. Special types of paper required for the Service Departments in connection with the manufacture of ammunition, etc., are purchased by my Department.