HC Deb 04 July 1916 vol 83 cc1363-4
34. Sir JOHN SPEAR

asked the Financial Secretary to the War Office if at least one-third of the 1916 clip of grease wool was sold at 15d. per lb. before the issue of the order; and if he will fix that as the price to be paid by the Government in taking the wool they require?

Mr. FORSTER

No figures are available to show the amount of the 1916 clip, which had changed hands before the date of the order, but I am advised that the quantity is probably small. The price at which such wool changed hands would vary greatly according to quality. The prices which it is proposed to pay for English wool will be higher than the price quoted in some instances and lower in others. I think that it would be convenient if I were to say now that I am prepared to receive a representative deputation on the question of the price to be paid. We have no wish to be harsh or unreasonable, and I think the matter could best be dealt with in this way.

Captain BATHURST

Does the hon. Gentleman realise that many farmers have already paid for the wool on their sheeps backs considerably more than he is now offering them for it?

Mr. FORSTER

That, among other aspects of the question, can be best dealt with when we deal with the matter by deputation. I hope the deputation will be representative of all classes who are interested in the question so that we may have a thoroughly satisfactory discussion.

Mr. G. FABER

When will it be held?

Mr. FORSTER

I do not know. As soon as the deputation can be organised.

Mr. GWYNNE

Was the Board of Agriculture consulted?

Mr. FORSTER

Yes.

Mr. JOHN O'CONNOR

Is the hon. Gentleman sending out invitations to persons suitable to form part of such a deputation?

Mr. FORSTER

I do not think it rests with me to send out the invitations, otherwise I might unconsciously invite those whom I wished to meet. Perhaps the arrangements had better be in the hands of the Central Chamber of Agriculture and the National Farmers' Union.

Mr. WARDLE

Is it a fact that the price the War Office are now offering for wool is 60 per cent, higher than it was during the ten years preceding 1914?

Mr. FORSTER

It is 60 per cent, higher than the average of eight years preceding 1914.