§ Mr. Gryllsasked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland in what ways he furthers the Government's policy towards smaller firms through the procurement policy of his Department.
§ Mr. AlisonIn their purchasing, the Northern Ireland Office and Northern Ireland Departments seek both to secure value for money and to enhance the competitiveness of suppliers. To assist smaller firms interested in undertaking Government contracts there is a booklet giving advice on how to go about it and where to make contact in Government Departments. This booklet, "Tendering for Government Contracts—Advice for Small Firms", was published by the Department of Industry's small-firm service; it is in circulation in Northern Ireland and copies can be obtained from the Department of Commerce for Northern Ireland.