HC Deb 07 March 1917 vol 91 cc403-4W
Mr. LARDNER

asked the Vice-President of the Department of Agriculture (Ireland) what supplies of sulphate of copper or other suitable spraying material are available for farmers in Ireland this year; what steps have been taken to ensure at. adequate supply of this material; and whether his Department are able to advise any substitute for sulphate of copper?

Mr. DUKE

Arrangements have been made with manufacturers of sulphate of copper to reserve sufficient supplies for Irish requirements during the ensuing season, provided that orders are given at once. The price of sulphate of copper for the season has been fixed at £50 per ton, free on rail at the makers' works. This price is much below the prices previously ruling. No substitute for sulphate of copper can be recommended for the spraying of potatoes.