asked the Minister for Local Government what inspection is made under the combined purchasing scheme of goods supplied to local authorities to ensure that the standard of the sample submitted is actually adhered to; and the total value of goods purchased under the scheme in the last available year.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Combined Purchasing Scheme.
26.
In all cases where a local authority purchase goods, they must satisfy themselves that the goods are of the requisite quality. In the case of purchases from official contractors appointed under the 1939 Act, local authorities refer samples to my Department for examination and testing if they are in doubt as to the quality of the goods. Where official contractors are required to supply standard samples, these samples are held in my Department for inspection on behalf of the local authorities.
The total value of goods supplied under the combined purchasing system in the 12 months ended 30th June, 1966, is estimated at £5,400,000.
On the question in relation to the pipes, is that not on the same process as the groups?
I am not sure about that. I think the group would be responsible for their own purchases.
I am talking about standards.
Standards apply to purchases by the combined purchasing section.