§ 88. Colonel Lord HENRY CAVENDISH-BENTINCKasked what is the price of palm-kernel cake, cotton, and linseed cake at the present time compared to the outbreak of the War?
§ Mr. ACLANDThe present prices per ton of these cakes, as shown in the trade publications, are palm-kernel cake, £12 2s. 6d.; Egyptian cotton cake, £12; English linseed cake, £16 2s. 6d.; and Indian linseed cake, £15. The prices at the outbreak of the War were £6, £4 13s. 9d., £7 15s. 4d., and £7 15s., respectively.
Captain BATHURSTAs the high price is largely due to the cost of the raw materials, will the right hon. Gentleman take steps to see that the prices are kept down?
§ Mr. ACLANDI think that question will have to come up; it is very important, as the prices are very high.
§ Colonel Lord HENRY CAVENDISH-BENTINCKIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that the prices are controlled by large monopolies?
§ Mr. ACLANDI do not think I can answer that; but there are legislative provisions which can be brought into effect if it is proved that materials are being held back in connection with excessive prices.