HC Deb 18 March 1968 vol 761 c3W
36. Mr. Cronin

asked the Minister of Technology what is his policy with regard to continuing to give contracts to companies who have been found on authoritative investigation to have made excessive profits at public expense on previous Government contracts.

Mr. Benn

There have been two cases in which it has been necessary to make authoritative investigations into excessive profits made on Government contracts—Ferranti Ltd. and Bristol Siddeley Engines Ltd.

The decision to continue dealing with Ferranti was taken by the party opposite. In the Bristol Siddeley Engines Limited case the question does not arise. The firm have been bought by Rolls Royce who have earned the highest reputation in all respects.