HC Deb 25 February 1918 vol 103 cc1090-1
44. Mr. O'DONNELL

asked the Chief Secretary for Ireland whether, seeing that the growing of flax has been firmly established in the district surrounding Killorglin, Kerry, during the past two years without any assistance from the Department, steps will betaken, cither in co-operation with the Fibre Corporation or independently, to establish a scutching mill in the district?

Mr. SAMUELS

The hon. Member is under a misapprehension in supposing that there has been no assistance from the Department of Agriculture. The Department have specially provided the services of an instructor in flax growing. The flax produced in the district has been grown for the Fibre Corporation, Dromore, county Down, who take over the crop from the growers and make the necessary provision for scutching.

Mr. O'DONNELL

Will the hon. and learned Gentleman answer the last part of my question, whether any assistance will be given to establish a scutching mill, instead of sending 200 miles away?

Mr. SAMUELS

If the hon. Gentleman desires any further information perhaps he will put a question down.