§ 17. Mr. F. GOULDasked the President of the Board of Trade whether his attention has been called Ito the fact that candles used for lighting purposes in the mines have risen from 3s. 9½d. to 5s. 8d. per dozen lbs. since December last, and that carbide has risen from 15s. 9d. to 19s. 6d. per cwt. during the past five weeks; and will he consider the advisability of obtaining powers to institute inquiries into the prices charged and the profits made?
Mr. WEBBI am aware of the recent increase in the price of candles, which I understand is due mainly to the increase in the price of paraffin wax in the United States. As regards carbide, I am not aware of any increase in wholesale prices, but I shall be glad to consider any detailed information which my hon. Friend is able to supply. The subject raised in the last part of the question is under consideration.