§ 73. Mr. EDWARD WOODasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Agriculture what is the reason for the increase in the price of fertilisers, and especially of basic slag; and whether the Government will consider the desirability of limiting the exportation of basic slag in order that an ample supply may be available for this country at reasonable prices?
Sir A. BOSCAWENThe reason for the increase in the price of fertilisers is the increased cost of production and enhanced demand. The hon. Member is no doubt aware that the prices which have been fixed for fertilisers for the 1920–21 season (which has only been done in the case of sulphate of ammonia and basic slag) are prices reached by agreement, and are not fixed by the exercise of any legal powers. In the case of basic slag, the relatively large advance in price is accounted for by the fact that there has been practically no advance for the last two years. In regard to the last part of the question, the exportation of basic slag is, at present, severely restricted; a Bill is now before Parliament under which powers are sought to continue this restriction in respect of basic slag and of other fertilisers.