§ Sir N. GRIFFITHSasked the Minister of Food whether it is the intention of the Government to decontrol fertilisers, such as basic slag, sulphate of ammonia, and superphosphates, in the near future; and, if not, whether he will state the reason for its continuity?
Sir A. BOSCAWENThe Fertiliser Prices Order, 1918, under which control was exercised over sales and purchases of the fertilisers to which my hon. and gallant Friend refers, ceased to operate on 31st May, 1919. Since that date maximum delivered prices of basic slag and sulphate of ammonia for home deliveries 1039W have been fixed by agreement between manufacturers and the Board of Agriculture. No maximum prices have been arranged for superphosphate on account of the varying cost of importing phosphate rock. Apart from these arrangements, the production, distribution, and prices for home consumption of these fertilisers are now free from control. Control of export of fertilisers is still maintained, in order to secure sufficient supplies to meet home requirements. Export licences for any surplus are, however, freely granted. This control will be discontinued as soon as practicable, consistent with meeting the needs of British agriculture.