HC Deb 03 April 1922 vol 152 cc1808-9
10. Mr. RAPER

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether the hop control is a body set up by the Government; what it costs, and when its operations are likely to cease?

Sir A. BOSCAWEN

I have been asked to reply. The answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. No charge falls upon the State due to the existence of the Hop Control Board; the cost, of administration is met out of trading receipts. Provision is made in the Ministry of Food (Continuance) Act, 1920, for the extension of the hop control until 1925.

Mr. RAPER

Why should there be any Government control of trade whatever to-day?

Sir A. BOSCAWEN

The matter was fully discussed two years ago in Committee and in this House, and this particular control, which involves no expense on public funds, is continued merely to enable growers, who have been compelled to sacrifice their hops during the War, to have time in which to recover.

Mr. LYLE-SAMUEL

How long will this control continue?

Sir A. BOSCAWEN

I have said in reply that the Bill provides for its continuance up to 1925.