HC Deb 01 November 1939 vol 352 c1933
61. Mr. Mainwaring

asked the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster why, in connection with the meat control scheme, it is intended to compensate auctioneers who may in consequence suffer loss; and is it intended to compensate every other interest that likewise may suffer loss?

Mr. W. S. Morrison

The answer to both parts of the question is that there is no such intention. The hon. Member probably has in mind a scheme which is being worked out by fatstock auctioneers themselves for the pooling of fees in the event of livestock markets being controlled.

Mr. Mainwaring

Is it not clear that the resources for a system of compensation for auctioneers are provided out of the control system, and that therefore the price of the commodity will be weighted by that consideration?

Mr. Morrison

No, Sir; that does not follow. The auctioneers made a suitable arrangement among themselves during the last war, and it is entirely a matter for them and not for the Department.

Mr. Mainwaring

Does not the question imply that there will be an unnecessary number of auctioneers in the country who will be compensated?

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