§ The following question stood on the Paper in the name of Mr. A. T. DAVIES:
§ 8. To ask the Secretary of State for India whether he is aware that 1965 business in the Indian rice market has been suspended by local merchants; whether the Home Government has received strong representations from rice merchants and traders regarding the situation; whether he is aware that all rice on the Indian market has been cornered by one or two operators, and that this artificial manipulation of prices tends to raise the price of this essential food; and does the Government propose to take any steps against such operators by legislation or otherwise?
§ Mr. GWYNNEIs it not customary for Ministers to leave answers to questions with other officers of their Department in the House?
§ Mr. SPEAKERThere is no obligation in that respect, if hon. Members fail to put their questions at the proper time.