Mr. DUNDAS WHITE(by Private Notice) asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Food whether the action of the Food Controller in fixing certain maximum prices for British wheat, barley, and oats has been followed in a number of places by a refusal of the farmers and dealers to sell the grain at these prices; and, if so, what steps he proposes to take in view of the urgency of the situation?
Captain BATHURSTI am informed that a few farmers and dealers have refused for the time being to sell their grain at the prices fixed by the recent Order, but it is not anticipated that this will continue. If it does the Food Controller will not hesitate to commandeer the stocks so withheld from public use.
§ Mr. ANDERSONWill the hon. Member publish a list of the names of persons who refuse to sell under these conditions?
Captain BATHURSTI doubt whether such a list would be obtainable, and, if it were, I doubt whether good would result.