HC Deb 22 June 1916 vol 83 cc349-50W
Sir JOHN SPEAR

asked the Under-Secretary of State for War if he is aware that much wool has been sold before being clipped; and will he say whether the order prevents such wool being delivered?

Mr. FORSTER

The answer to both parts of the question is in the affirmative.

Sir J. SPEAR

asked the Under-Secretary of State for War if the prohibition to the sale of wool is confined to the 1916 clip, or does it include wool in the growers' hands if produced in previous years; and will he state what method he proposes to adopt in claiming the wool and fixing the price to be paid?

Mr. FORSTER

The prohibition of the purchase and sale of wool only applies to the 1916 clip. Purchase of the wool will be conducted, so far as possible, through the ordinary trade channels, and arrangements are now being made to set up the necessary organisation with the least possible delay. The price to be paid for the wool will be fixed on the basis of the prices ruling in June and July, 1914, with the addition of a fixed percentage to cover the increased expenses of the farmers.

Sir J. SPEAR

asked the Under-Secretary of State for War if he will consider the desirability of utilising the services and local knowledge of recognised wool dealers in any steps the Government may take in acquiring wool under the order?

Mr. FORSTER

It is proposed to utilise the services of local wool merchants so far as may be found practicable. Local advisory committees are being set up in each district to assist the Department's officers in selecting competent agents.

Mr. JAMES HILL

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether, in view of the decision of the Army Council to purchase the whole of the English wool-clip for 1916, he has considered the position of the spinner and manufacturer who has made a speciality of using this class of wool and who cannot find any substitute?

Mr. FORSTER

The Army Council is intending to utilise the bulk of the 1916 clip for military purposes, and in arranging for distribution to spinners and manufacturers who are able to undertake Government orders they will be guided by returns showing the quantity and class of wool which firms are likely to require. The balance of the clip unsuitable for military purposes will be disposed of at market prices.