HC Deb 17 October 1916 vol 86 cc406-7W
Viscount WOLMER

asked the Secretary of State for War in what other counties the price for hay requisitioned by the Government has been the same as that fixed in Lancashire; and whether the current rates of wages and other expenses of farmers can be said to be approximately the same in these counties?

Mr. FORSTER

The price is the same for all counties in England and Wales, allowance being made for proximity to ports or troop centres. Lancashire farmers are exceptionally well placed in this respect, and they are not considered to be in any way penalised in comparison with farmers in other parts of the country.

Viscount WOLMER

asked the Secretary of State for War what allowance has been made in the prices fixed for requisitioned hay in Lancashire for the increase in the cost of production over pre-war prices?

Mr. FORSTER

The price being paid is considered ample to cover all expenses and leave an average margin of profit quite equal to that under pre-war prices.

Viscount WOLMER

asked the Secretary of State for War whether, in requisitioning hay from farmers, he will consider the possibility of demanding an equal percentage of all farmers' hay instead of requisitioning the entire crop of some and leaving that of others untouched?

Mr. FORSTER

I am afraid that the Noble Lord's suggestion is impracticable. The Army Council are not now requisitioning hay from individual farmers, but have by Order under the Defence of the Realm Regulations taken possession of all hay, releasing that which is unsuitable for Army purposes.

Viscount WOLMER

asked the Secretary of State for War whether instructions have been issued to district purchasing officers concerning the 1916 crop of straw, and, if so, when they were so issued; and, if they have not yet been issued, whether he is aware that farmers' straw has been held up in Lancashire for lack of instructions?

Mr. FORSTER

Full instructions have been issued from time to time since 30th June last, and I am not aware that straw has been held up in Lancashire through any failure in this respect.