§ Mr. Doddsasked the Minister of Supply the total quantity of low grade ammunition paint offered for sale at the recent public auctions at Woolwich and Melton Mowbray.
§ Mr. MaudlingThe total quantity of ammunition paint offered for sale at Woolwich and Melton Mowbray amounted to about 36,000 gallons.
§ Mr. Doddsasked the Minister of Supply how many air compressor machines were offered for sale at Donnington by his 10W Department in February last; what was the purchase price; how many were sold at the auction; how the price realised per machine compares with the cost price; for what purpose the machines were purchased; and how they have been used.
§ Mr. HeadI have been asked to reply. None were offered for sale in February, but 82 were offered and sold by the Ministry of Supply at an auction sale at Manchester on 31st January.
These compressors were of four different types, and most were bought during the war. The proceeds of the sale were £1,876 compared to the original cost price of £15,690. The average prices received for each type of compressor varied between 7 per cent. and 22 per cent. of the original cost.
The compressors were bought for various purposes, some for use with pneumatic tools in static workshops, and some, which were portable, were intended for use in the Far East. A few were purchased after the war for use at home and abroad with special equipment. The Army has no further use for them as they are either obsolete or unsuitable for present day purposes.