HC Deb 25 July 1916 vol 84 cc1481-2

The following question stood upon the Order Paper in the name of Mr. LUNDON:

10. To ask the Secretary of State for War why the price per ton paid for hay in Ireland is far under that allowed for hay in Great Britain; and will steps be taken to see that for the future the same prices will be allowed to farmers in Ireland for agricultural produce commandeered for war purposes as to farmers in Great Britain?

Mr. FORSTER

I must apologise for being late. The difference in the maximum prices of English and Irish hay in the later part of the season is only slight. In the earlier part the difference is greater, owing to the fact that new Irish hay contains more moisture than English. I believe that the price for Irish hay is usually lower than that for English.

Mr. LUNDON

May I ask if the hon. Gentleman has expert authority for saying that the difference between Irish hay and English hay is so great as to amount to about £ 2 per ton?

Mr. FORSTER

That is the advice which was given to me by those who know.

Mr. GRAHAM

Is the price of Irish hay arrived at on the same basis as all other commodities imported into this country?

Mr. FORSTER

I will consider that.

Mr. P. WHITE

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that Irish hay is subjected to a much longer process than English hay, and can he say whether he speaks on the authority of expert information or only official information?

Mr. T. M. HEALY

May I ask whether the Department's knowledge of Irish hay comes from Captain Henshaw, an ironmonger?