§ MR. FLYNNI beg to ask the Chief Secretary to the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland whether he can state what price per hundred (126) did the Congested Districts Board obtain for mackerel during the years 1899, 1900, and 1901, respectively, whether 930 the contract for purchase of fish during these years was given to one buyer or divided among several, was the contract price fixed for the entire year in each case, and was the contract advertised and open to competition, and, if not, can he explain why it was not so offered.
§ MR. WYNDHAMThe prices varied at different periods of the years mentioned, and I am communicating details to the hon. Member. In 1899 the contract was given to one firm; in 1900 to two firms; and in 1901 to one firm. Every year circulars are sent to all fish buyers known to the Board, and an agreement is made with the firm offering the best terms for the fishermen. Tenders are not advertised for, but the arrangement made differs little from open competition.
§ MR. WYNDHAMI will consider that point.