HC Deb 17 April 1947 vol 436 c48W

  1. 1. The prices paid to the growers are based on prewar figures of actual realised prices, plus a substantial increase (higher in the case of hill sheep) given for reasons of agricultural policy. They were determined with no reference to probable selling values. They also include no marketing expenses, which have been borne throughout by the Exchequer.
  2. 2. During the war years the average cost to the Exchequer of each season's clip was somewhere in the region of £11,250,000.
  3. 3. It is hoped as a result of the introduction of improved methods of sale to realise higher selling values and so reduce the Exchequer liability. No firm assurance can, however, be given on this, since the realised price must rest on the trend of world wool values.
  4. 4. In providing a net cash requirement of £1,100,000, provision was made to cover the possibility of some portion of the year's clip remaining unsold.