HC Deb 15 March 1920 vol 126 cc1809-10
74. Sir R. COOPER

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Board of Trade what is the value of food supplied to Germany that has been specially allocated against the potash contract; and what profit has been received by the Government to date on account of potash purchased from Germany?

Mr. BRIDGEMAN

The first part of the question should be addressed to the Chancellor of the Exchequer. As to the second part of the question, it is not possible at this stage to furnish the desired information, but it may be stated that the prices at which the potash is being resold in this country are calculated to preclude any loss to the Exchequer.

Sir R. COOPER

Why cannot the hon. Gentleman give me the profit that is made? It is in the books of his Department. Why does he want to hide it up?

Mr. BRIDGEMAN

I cannot give the hon. Baronet the information, but I can give him the reason why I cannot.