MR. FIELD (Dublin, St. Patrick)I beg to ask the President of the Board of Trade whether his attention has been directed to the increase in the price of bread stuffs generally; whether he will inquire into the facts and ascertain how far the system of gambling in futures in grain has contributed to the abnormal rise; and whether any legislative Measures will be considered, with a view to prevent gambling in staple food supplies?
§ THE PRESIDENT OF THE BOARD OF TRADEI am aware that there has been a considerable increase in the price of certain bread stuffs, but I do not consider it necessary to make any inquiry with the view of connecting that rise with dealings in grain. As I have already stated, in reply to the honourable Member, I do not propose to initiate any legislation to prevent time bargains.