§ Mr. De Chairasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs (1) if he is satisfied that the system of allocating contracts in connection with the United Nations headquarters gives every reasonable opportunity to foreign firms to participate; (2) what British firms have submitted tenders for the provision of materials. equipment and furnishings for the United Nations headquarters; how many of these tenders have been accepted; and what is the value of any tenders which have been accepted.
§ Mr. YoungerAs regards office equipment and furniture a purchasing commission headed by an official of the United Nations Secretariat is at present visiting several countries in Europe and the Middle East to explore the possibility of placing orders there. The mission will visit this country next month.
As far as building materials are concerned, I would refer the hon. Member to the reply given to the hon. Member for Blackpool, South (Mr. R. Robinson), on 13th March. The present system of allocating contracts is being continuously and carefully watched by our representatives in Washington and New York. I am unable to give the facts and figures asked for since these commercial transactions are not conducted through Government channels. It is known, however, that some British firms have secured contracts for stationery and office supplies.