HC Deb 11 April 1918 vol 104 cc1610-1
21. Mr. BYRNE

asked the Chief Secretary for Ireland if his attention has been drawn to the threatened closing down of the food departments in Ireland for the want of funds; and if he will state what steps, if any, he intends to take to avert that disaster?

Mr. DUKE

I have not heard of the closing down of any food department in Ireland for want of funds or otherwise. If the hon. Member sends me particulars I will have inquiry made.

Mr. BYRNE

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the attention of his Department has been drawn to this case during the last six weeks, and that two food depots in Dublin are about to be closed down for want of funds to carry on?

Mr. DUKE

I had no idea that the hon. Member was referring to some charitable undertakings.

Mr. CRUMLEY

Arising out of the answer to the question, cannot the controlled price be withdrawn, so that the seller may make his own prices, seeing that there is plenty of food supplies?

Mr. DUKE

I myself, from personal observation, have seen the result of persons making their own prices, and I know that the magistrates of Dublin found it necessary to inflict very heavy penalties upon people who made oppressive charges.