§ 23. Mr. HOGGEasked the President of the Board of Trade whether his attention has been called to the fact that Cheviot wool has been sold at recent sales at Hawick at prices varying from 79s. to 80s. per stone of 24 lbs., while the maximum price allowed by the Government last year was 40s., at the last open market in 1915 the price was 40s. to 41s., and in 1914 the price was 24s. 6d. per stone; and, if so, whether his Department will deal with such sales under the Profiteering Bill?
§ Sir A. GEDDESI understand the facts are as stated by the hon. Member. The whole question of wool prices will require careful examination, but I may point out the prices quoted were realised at open auction, which, if the Profiteering Bill were to become law in the form it left this House, would exclude such transactions from its provisions.
§ Mr. HOGGEWhen the right hon. Gentleman says "require consideration," does he mean that he is going to give the matter consideration?
§ Sir A. GEDDESYes.
§ Mr. DENNISDo farmers selling their produce at market price, otherwise than by auction, come within the scope of the Profiteering Bill?
§ Sir A. GEDDESIt is quite impossible for me to predict what will be the terms of the Profiteering Act. The Bill, as it left this House, excludes from its provisions sales by public auction and prices fixed by open public tender.