asked the Minister for Defence, if he will state, with reference to the Appropriation Accounts, Public Services, 1948-49, Vote 63, sub-head P, and the explanations at page 241 thereof (a) what equipment provided for under this sub-head was not purchased; (b) the reasons for not purchasing the same, and (c) whether orders therefor were ever placed.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Defence Equipment.
Major de Valera
As regards (a) of the Deputy's question it is considered that it would not be in the public interest to give the information requested. As regards (b) all the equipment was not purchased because stores were not available. As regards (c) orders for such stores as were available were placed.
Major de Valera
Can the Minister give the information in terms of money as has been customary in questions of that nature? I can follow it up with another question. The Minister can avoid giving the details if he gives the total amount.
I think I could, but I would rather not do it at the moment.
Major de Valera
I will repeat the question, if necessary.