§ 22. Mr. CRUMLEYasked the Chief Secretary for Ireland whether, having regard to the losses sustained by small farmers in Fermanagh county by restrictions in the sale of hay, steps will be taken to have such restrictions removed immediately and to permit the farmers to sell their hay in the open market?
§ Mr. FORSTERIn fairness to producers generally throughout the country, I am afraid it is impossible to consider the removal of the restrictions in the sale of hay, but I am not aware that they are involving the small farmers referred to in any losses.
§ Mr. CRUMLEYIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that there is a scarcity of first-crop hay in the county of Fermanagh, and why should there be any restriction placed on these small farmers in the sale of their hay?
§ Mr. FORSTERThe only restriction is in the matter of price.
§ Mr. KILBRIDEIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that the statement which he has just made is inaccurate? There are several small farmers in various parts of Ireland who have been restricted up to the present in selling in the open market hay unfit for military purposes?
§ Mr. FORSTERThe hon. Member will remember that the Army Council has taken possession of all the hay in the United Kingdom. Licences are given if the hay is not suitable for Army requirements, and it can be sold for general use. The only restriction remaining is in the matter of price.
§ Mr. KILBRIDEWhat is the purpose of the Army Council in taking possession of all the hay if it is unfit for military purposes?