HC Deb 25 July 1916 vol 84 cc1494-6
24. Mr. GINNELL

asked whether, having regard to the special urgency of prompt payment for wool in Ireland, as compared with this country, he is now in a position to say what the price is to be and how soon it will be paid?

Mr. FORSTER

The Army Council are issuing to-day a notice permitting wool merchants and country dealers to buy wool from farmers in Ireland at certain fixed prices, which have been based upon 1914 prices with the addition of 35 per cent., and subject to the conditions specified in the notice. As transactions are now permitted upon these conditions there should now be no delay in paying the farmer for his wool.

Mr. GINNELL

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that this price is considered to be very much below what it should be?

Mr. FORSTER

I know that some people consider it so.

Mr. JOYCE

Will this be a general Order including all wool merchants?

Mr. FORSTER

I think that is so.

Mr. GRAHAM

May I ask when payment will be made for the wool of local buyers commandeered previous to the compulsory Order?

Mr. FORSTER

It will be paid for as soon as the wool is delivered.

Mr. GRAHAM

It is already delivered.

Mr. P. WHITE

Is it the intention of the Government to send any officers to the country districts with the usual buyers?

Mr. FORSTER

Wool merchants and dealers will be permitted to buy wool, but not to sell it to anybody but the Government.

Mr. WHITE

Have the Government sent any agents to compete against them in buying?

Mr. FORSTER

No, that is not done.

Mr. LUNDON

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that the wool commandeered by the Government from these buyers is paid for only at the price at which it is bought from the farmers; that they are kept out of their money for a long time; and does he consider that is fair?

Mr. FORSTER

I am not aware of that. I think it would be very much better for hon. Members to wait until the scheme is in operation before they form their opinions about it.

Mr. CRUMLEY

What is the position of these men who have bought wool which is commandeered; how are they paid; is it by commission?

Mr. FORSTER

When we are dealing with matters of detail of this kind, hon. Members will see that it would be fairer to me if they gave me notice of the questions.