asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Food whether contracts for the supply of provisions to German prisoners of war and British conscientious objectors, and the like persons under restraint, are en-forcible, though they entail the supply of food to such prisoners and objectors at prices below ruling market or officially fixed rates to the prejudice of loyal British subjects, or whether any steps can be taken under the Defence of the Realm Act to render void any stipulation as to price contained in such contracts?

Contracts for supplies for the purposes mentioned in the question are in the same category as other contracts. In Orders relating to prices the Food Controller does not interfere with contracts where the price is less than the maximum price.

In that case would it not be possible for persons of this category to lie receiving stores—food and beef—at far lower prices than the public who are paying?

In so far as the public pay for these supplies it is clearly to their advantage that prices should be as low as possible.

On the other hand, is it not distinctly in favour of these people?