§ 22. Mr. BOLANDasked the Vice-President of the Department of Agriculture (Ireland) whether any definite steps have been taken to secure for Ireland an increased quantity of artificial manures; and, if not, whether every effort is being made to ensure that the increase of tillage now being undertaken is not wasted by the impossibility of securing the necessary manures?
§ Mr. T. W. RUSSELL (Vice-President of the Department of Agriculture, Ireland)The general position in regard to the supply of artificial manures was intimated in reply to a similar question by the hon. Member on the 23rd instant. I am, however, glad to state that since that date the position has improved somewhat, and increased quantities have been coming into Ireland. The Department of Agriculture fully recognise the importance of the matter, and will continue to make every effort to secure adequate supplies for the country's needs.
§ Captain DOUGLAS HALLIs it not a fact that chemical manufacturers are at a considerable loss in supplying these artificial fertilisers to the farmers, rather than exporting them?