HC Deb 07 November 1916 vol 87 cc17-8
53. Mr. SNOWDEN

asked the Secretary of State for War if, in view of the hardship that is being suffered by business men being called up to the Colours and having to dispose of their trade stocks at ruinous prices, he will consider the possibility of the Government purchasing such stocks at their proper value where such commodities can be used for the purposes of the Army?

Mr. FORSTER

The War Office would be prepared to consider sympathetically offers made by business men, in the circumstances contemplated by the hon. Member, of goods suitable for Army purposes, but the possibility of accepting such offers would, of course, depend on the circumstances of the particular case and, in particular, on the feasibility of making suitable arrangements for inspection.

Mr. A. SMITH

Will the hon. Gentleman take into consideration the immediate review of the position of the Civil Liabili- ties Committee on the point; the people who have to deal with this matter find it very difficult?