14. Major NEWMANasked the President of the Board of Trade whether as from 1st June, 1919, the National Iron Merchants' Association have entered into an agreement with the National Master Farriers' Association not to supply goods to any farrier unless he is or becomes a member of the Farriers' Association; whether he is aware that the effect of this arrangement is to raise prices by as much as 50 per cent. against the public; and what action does he propose to take to stop such profiteering and protect the farrier not desirous of being forced into a trades union?
§ Mr. BRIDGEMANMy attention has not previously been drawn to the existence of the agreement referred to by my hon. and gallant Friend, but if he will pass on to me the information which he possesses on this subject I will consider the matter.