TENDEKS 103 



machines driven by different types of engines. In this way 

 the engineer can obtain his end without leaving an opening 

 for unfair competition. Bearing in mind that the local 

 authority in question was a municipal body, the legality of this 

 particular method of obtaining tenders would seem to be open 

 to question. The object of the legislation is manifestly clear; 

 it, is to give to the public an assurance that there shall be no 

 favouritism, and that the ratepayers' money shall be expended 

 as economically as possible. A further question has also 

 arisen. Is a municipal body at liberty to state that no tender 

 will be considered unless it include a particular type of engine ? 

 Although there does not appear to be any direct authority on 

 the point, it constitutes, in the author's view, an abuse of the 

 powers which are conferred upon local bodies by Parliament, 

 and opens the door to unfair dealing. 



The section of the Public Health Act, 1875, above considered 

 also provides that there must be a specification in the case of 

 any contract with a local authority. (See Chap. X., 7, post.) 



