§ Mr. KEATING(by Private Notice) asked the President of the Board of Trade if he is aware that the price of maize in the British market was 45s. 6d. per quarter on 21st September; that the price to-day is 62s. per quarter; that large quantities have been held up in British ports during the interval by speculators; that, as maize is largely used in Ireland, and that the contemplated "war loaf" will contain 15 per cent. of maize, it is urgently necessary for the Government to protect the people from being fleeced by these speculators; and will he consider the question of commandeering the maize now lying in British ports at the last invoice price paid by the holders, and not at the higher price at which it is now offered?
§ Mr. PRETYMANI am aware of the rise in prices. I propose later in the afternoon to make a statement as to the powers which the Government propose to take in 806 regard to the regulation of supply of necessary articles. I will consider whether any of these powers should be exercised in regard to the particular article referred to.