HC Deb 21 February 1919 vol 112 cc1299-300W
Colonel WEDGWOOD

asked the Prime Minister, why, while the law guarantees a price of 55s. a quarter, His Majesty's Government is in fact guaranteeing a price of 75s. 6d. a quarter; and whether His Majesty's Government are putting any obstacles in the way of the importation of cheap corn into the country?

Sir A. GRIFFITH-BOSCAWEN

The price of the 1919 wheat crop represents the considered opinion of the late Government on the price that would be necessary in 1919 to induce the farmers to grow wheat as extensively as in 1918. I am informed that His Majesty's Government is selling imported wheat and flour to the public at less than cost price. Fifty-five shillings per quarter in the Corn Production Act is calculated on a quarter of 480 lbs. The 75s. 6d. mentioned by the hon. and gallant Member is based on the quarter of 504 lbs. The corresponding figure is, therefore, 72.