§ 52. Mr. Erskine Hillasked the Minister of Supply whether he is now in a position to make a statement regarding the control of wool prices in Scotland?
§ Mr. BurginMaximum prices for Scottish and other types of wool were fixed in the Control of Wool (Amendment) Order made on 5th September, and dealings in wool may, under the Control of Wool (Amendment) (No. 2) Order, take place under licence. It is hoped to be able to take further steps in regard to wool control in the near future. As stated in an answer to the hon. Member for East Fife (Mr. Henderson Stewart) on 28th September, further consultation with the Scottish Federation of Wool Brokers and Merchants will take place before such steps are taken.
§ Mr. Erskine HillDoes my right hon. Friend realise the great hardship which is being caused at present, as it is impossible to deal with the wool market in Scotland; and will he, so far as he can, expedite the decision in regard to the fixing of prices?
§ Mr. BurginYes, Sir. The price of wool is a question of the price of only one commodity. The whole question of the prices of commodities is receiving my attention.