HC Deb 05 February 1918 vol 101 cc2144-5W
Sir J. D. REES

asked the Secretary of State for India whether the Committee, without. any German element, appointed for buying raw hides in Calcutta has been abolished; and whether it is proposed to reopen this business to all firms, including those of well-known German origin, which prior to the War entirely dominated this important trade in India?

Mr. FISHER

The answer to the first part of the question is in the negative. Proposals regarding an alteration in the method of purchase have been made by the Government of India and are now being considered in consultation with the War Office, which is the Department principally interested in the supply of hides during the War. A decision has not yet been reached. These proposals do not involve the employment of all firms in the trade.