§ Lieut.-Colonel WEIGALLasked the Secretary of State for War how long it is proposed to continue control of hay and straw; and whether farmers are to be compensated in cases in which straw commandeered last year has never been delivered and is still occupying space in stockyards urgently required?
§ Mr. FORSTERThe restrictions contained in the Army Council Order of the 30th July, 1918, in so far as they related to straw were cancelled by an Army Council Order which came into force on 1st February, 1919. It is intended to control 1918 crop hay only as long as stocks of this crop last. The Army Council do not propose to control 1919 hay or straw in any manner. With regard to the last part of the question, I would point out that until the straw has been delivered farmers are receiving payment at the rate of 15 per cent. per annum over and above the price agreed to be paid them for it. As the bulk of the straw was purchased in the later months of last year, and baling operations continue throughout the whole year it is manifestly impossible to take delivery at any specified time.