§ 88. Major COURTHOPEasked the Food Controller what total sum has been realised by the charge of 11s. 4d. per cwt. on animals sold in markets, and what is the average charge per animal?
§ Mr. McCURDYBetween 19th September, 1918, the date on which the per head charge of 11s. 4d. per cwt. was levied on all cattle sold for slaughter in markets, and the end of last month, the total sum realised by this charge amounted approximately to £3,449,939. The average charge per animal was approximately £5 13s. 2d.
§ Mr. LAMBERTWhere does this money go?
§ Mr. McCURDYOf course, this money would go towards the general administrative expenses.
§ Sir F. BANBURYHas this £3,400,000 been taken out of the pockets of the farmers?
§ Earl WINTERTONUnder what Vote is this money taken?
§ Mr. SPEAKERHon. Members had better give notice of any further questions.
§ 89. Major COURTHOPEasked the Food Controller whether he is aware that the legality of the charge of 11s. 4d. per cwt. on animals sold in markets is questioned by some legal authorities; and whether he will submit this question to the Law Officers of the Crown for their opinion?
§ Mr. McCURDYI am not aware that the legality of the per head charge on cattle sold for slaughter, which I may mention has recently been reduced, has been questioned by legal authorities. The Law Officers of the Crown will be consulted if, and when, the necessity arises.