19. Major NEWMANasked the President of the Board of Trade what amount of public money has been advanced to individuals or companies under the Flax Companies (Financial Assistance) Act; how much flax will be harvested this year in Great Britain as the result of moneys so advanced; and will the crop be dressed in mills that have been or are being erected in various parts of Great Britain by public moneys?
§ Sir A. GEDDESMy hon. and gallant Friend appears to be under a misapprehension. The Act in question does not permit of any advances out of public funds to flax-growing undertakings, but only authorises companies or associations to take shares in or make or guarantee loans take any limited liability company formed for the purpose, such action being subject to the approval of the Board of Trade.
Major NEWMANWould the right hon. Gentleman give me an answer to the last part of the question. There are two questions?
§ Sir A. GEDDESI have no knowledge of the last part of the question.
Major NEWMANIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that this matter came before the Standing Committee which is considering Estimates?