§ 71 and 72. Sir R. COOPERasked the Minister of Food (1) whether it is with the knowledge and sanction of the Government that the United Kingdom Linseed Oil Consumers' Association, which has been entrusted with the function of distributing linseed oil to manufacturers in this country, refuses to make an allotment of more than 5 cwts. per month to anyone who is not a member of the association, to which admission is possible only by election and by payment of a fee of two guineas periodically; whether he will publish the names of the firms or individuals who are members of this association, and who are the individuals who determine the allotment of oils to manufacturers applying for a share of the available supply; (2) if the officials who determine the supply of linseed oil to manufacturers are connected with firms interested in the production and disposal of such oil; and has he received any complaints of the partial manner in which linseed oil is distributed?
§ Mr. CLYNESThe United Kingdom Linseed Oil Consumers' Association was formed at the suggestion of my Department for the purpose of allocating linseed oil to the various trades by which supplies are required. Allotments in excess of 5 cwts. monthly are only made to members of the association, but any trader is eligible for membership at an annual subscription of two guineas. The membership exceeds 400, and I will forward a list of members to the hon. Baronet, if he so desires. The members of the committee which determines the allocation of linseed oil are elected by the association, and are necessarily representative of firms interested in the trades eligible for membership. No substantial complaints have been received of any partiality in the distribution of available supplies.
§ Sir R. COOPERWill the right hon. Gentleman please send me the list?
§ Mr. CLYNESCertainly.