§ 48. Mr. E. DAVIESasked the Secretary of State for War whether his attention has been called to the resolution of the Welsh Agricultural Council protesting against the Government restricting the price to be paid for wool even by manufacturers, whilst allowing the manufacturers to fix unhindered the price of the manufactured article to the purchaser; and whether he proposes to take any steps to see that the manufacturer shall not benefit at the expense of the farmer?
§ Mr. FORSTERManufacturers in Wales who buy wool are agents of the Department for this purpose and therefore buy at the fixed prices, but before being allowed to use such wool for their own purposes they are required to pay to the Department the difference between the fixed price and the full market price. The full benefit from the fixed price paid to the farmer is, therefore, secured for the public, and no special advantage is obtained by the manufacturer.
§ Mr. DAVIESAre we to understand that the difference is received by the Government and not paid over to the farmer?
§ Mr. FORSTERYes, Sir; that is so.
§ 56. Mr. HINDSasked the Financial Secretary to the War Office whether he is aware that the withdrawal on the 1st November of the licences issued to manufacturers to purchase wool locally, as set forth in the Circular Letter of the War Office of the 27th October, is causing loss and inconvenience to manufacturers; and whether ho will consider the desirability of renewing such licences?
§ Mr. FORSTERLicences for manufacturers in Wales to buy direct from farmers were withdrawn owing to the delays which were occurring in taking up the wool. Special permits will now be granted to manufacturers to continue purchasing direct on condition that the wool is purchased and paid for before a fixed date.