§ Mr. Marplesasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer when the general policy of keeping contract awards secret was last reviewed; and on what criteria it was decided that it should be continued.
§ Mr. DiamondThis policy is kept under review. Tenders for equipment and stores are normally submitted in confidence, and details of awards are there-force not customarily published. On request, unusuccessful bidders are told in general terms why they received no award.