§ 9. Mr. SITCHasked the Secretary of State for India, with reference to his statement that it is hoped it may be found possible shortly to dispense with Government control of rice in Burma, whether he is aware that Mr. Mant, Revenue member of the Indian Government, has stated in the Viceregal Legislature that control will probably be maintained until the next harvest is available; whether, if control is maintained, he will direct that, besides the maximum price fixed by the Government, the Government will also fix a minimum price for purchases from the cultivators, such minimum price to cover cost of production, and prevent the exploitation of native cultivators; and whether he will also direct that the maximum price be fixed by the Government after consultation with the representatives of the cultivators?
§ Mr. MONTAGUI am aware of the statement made by Mr. Mant. The Burma rice harvest is gathered during November, December, and January. If it should prove necessary to control the new crop, the hon. Member's suggestions will be considered,