§ Mr. G. TERRELLasked what arrangements are being made to assist farmers 552W who have no proper accommodation for the storage of wool pending valuation and purchase by the Government; and whether in the case of its depreciation and damage, not the fault of the farmer but owing to lack of proper storage accommodation, full compensation will be paid?
§ Mr. FORSTERFarmers who have in-sufficient storage accommodation are authorised to make arrangements to con-sign their wool preferably to the merchant or broker to whom they consigned their wool last year, on the understanding that the wool remains the property of the farmer and is held at his expense. The farmer is responsible for the storage and safe custody of his wool until it is purchased by or on behalf of the Army Council.
§ Mr. FIELDasked the President of the Board of Trade whether he has received a copy of a resolution passed by the Irish Cattle Traders' and Stockowners' Association protesting against the Government fixing the price of wool on a basis of 30 per cent, over the 1914 price and stating that anything less than the 1915 price would be unsatisfactory, also that immediate payment should be made in full when the price has been fixed, as it is of importance to the small farmer to be able to meet his rents and other obligations at the end of the half-year; and whether he can state what course will be adopted by the Government in this matter?
§ Mr. FORSTERYes, Sir; I have received a copy of the resolution referred to. My hon. Friend was present at the deputation which I received at the War Office yesterday, and will, no doubt, agree that what I said there answers the points raised in his question.