§ 44. Mr. Sextonasked the Minister of Agriculture what the Government are prepared to do to mitigate the hardship of sheep farmers, many of whom have now on their hands the 1937 and 1938 clips of wool which they cannot dispose of at a remunerative rate?
§ Mr. W. S. MorrisonI have no information as to the proportion of the 1937 wool clip still in the hands of farmers, but I would point out that prices of wool in 1937 were well above the level of recent years, although there has been an appreciable decline this season owing to the general fall in world prices of wool, over which the Government has, of course, no control. The 1938 clip is only now being marketed. As regards the 26 question of action by the Government to mitigate the hardship of sheep farmers, I would refer the hon. Member to my replies to earlier questions on this subject.
§ Mr. SextonAre not the Government prepared to insist that at least the clothing of British troops must be made from home-produced wool?
§ Mr. MorrisonThat is another question; perhaps the hon. Member will put it down.
§ Mr. HoldsworthIs the Minister aware that some home-produced wool is not suitable for that type of clothing?