HC Deb 29 June 1916 vol 83 cc1022-3
33. Mr. CAUTLEY

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Board of Agriculture whether the promulgation of the Regulations for the purchase by the Government of farmers' wool will be expedited, seeing that already many small farmers have been much inconvenienced by being kept out of the money they would have realised for their wool if the ordinary sale thereof had not been prohibited?

The FINANCIAL SECRETARY to the WAR OFFICE (Mr. Forster)

Arrangements for purchasing wool throughout the country are being completed as rapidly as possible, and it is hoped to start operations shortly.

69. Captain BATHURST

asked the Under-Secretary of State for War how soon after delivery, and on what basis, complete payment will be made to farmers for wool commandeered by the Government for war purposes; and whether the price given will vary according to the description and condition of the wool and the locality from which it comes?

Mr. FORSTER

A payment of 75 per cent, of the estimated value of the wool will be made to the farmer immediately after delivery of the wool. The balance will be paid on the receipt of a certificate showing the description and condition of the wool as soon as the wool has been properly inspected. The price will, of course, vary according to the description and condition of the wool.

Captain BATHURST

Will the hon. Gentleman take into account the fact that the cost of the producion of wool has risen during the War by at least 40 per cent., and also that the ratio which the value of wool bears to that of meat varies considerably in the different breeds of sheep?

Mr. SPEAKER

The hon. Member might very well take the trouble to put down that question.

74. Mr. DIXON

asked the Financial Secretary to the War Office if the price of wool will be fixed by an expert well acquainted with the wool trade or only by a War Office official?

Mr. FORSTER

Wool will be valued by experts on the basis of a schedule of fixed prices for standard qualities which has been drawn up by the War Office in consultation with a number of leading men of business.

Sir JOHN SPEAR

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that a large quantity of fleece wool, 1916 crop, was sold at 15d. a pound before the Government order was given, and will he have regard to that fact and fix it as the datum line as a guidance in fixing prices?

Mr. SPEAKER

That does not arise out of the question on the Paper.