HC Deb 05 June 1905 vol 147 cc675-6
MR. FIELD (Dublin, St. Patrick)

To ask the Secretary to the Board of Trade whether he has any official information showing that the reduction on imports of wheat and flour from the United States and Canada to the United Kingdom for 1904, in comparison with the previous-year, can be traced to the artificial high prices ruling in the United States due to the wheat corners in that country owing to the option and future gambling system prevailing during 1904; and whether, in view of the influence of such gambling operations in regard to food supplies upon honest trading and the cost of food, he will communicate with the President of the United States, suggesting an International Conference upon the matter.

(Answered by Mr. Bonar Law.) The Answer to both the points raised in the hon. Member's Question is in the negative.