§ 94. Sir ROBERT PEARCEasked why wool sales were stopped by the War Office at Kettering on the 8th June, but on the same day allowed to proceed unchecked in London; and whether, in fixing the price for wool the sale of which has been stopped, the Government is guided by prices ruling at the time of the stoppage; and, if not, by what basis and why is that basis adopted; and, where the price of wool has been fixed, have any measures been taken to ensure that all 675 the benefits of such action accrue to the Government and none of them to wool merchants or manufacturers'?
§ Mr. FORSTERThe Order issued by the Army Council on the 8th June prohibited the' sale of British and Irish wool, but did not apply to the sale of Colonial wool in London and elsewhere. I have explained to a representative deputation of agricultural interests that the price to be paid for British and Irish wool has been fixed on the prices ruling in June and July, 1914, with the addition of 35 per cent. to cover the increased expenses of farmers. A report of this meeting appeared in the public Press on 13th July. The answer to the last part of the question is in the affirmative.
§ Sir G. YOUNGERDid the deputation express satisfaction with the hon. Member's proposal or otherwise?
§ Mr. FORSTERNo, Sir. Modified satisfaction.