HC Deb 27 June 1938 vol 337 cc1524-5
37. Major Macnamara

asked the Minister of Agriculture whether he is aware that lamb in East Anglia is being sold by farmers at below pre-war prices; that the price of feeding-stuffs has risen by 50 per cent. and of labour by 100 per cent. since 1914; and what is the Government's policy in this connection?

Mr. W. S. Morrison

I am aware that the price of fat lambs has recently fallen and that prices of feeding-stuffs, and farm workers' wages, are higher than in prewar years. My information is, however, that lamb prices in East Anglia have not, on the whole, fallen below the pre-war level, and that the increase in feeding costs is considerably less than my hon. and gallant Friend suggests. With regard to the last part of the question, I have explained in reply to previous questions that consultations are taking place with the principal overseas suppliers on the subject of imports of mutton and lamb. Feeding-stuffs prices are, in general, governed by world conditions, over which the Government have no control.

Sir Joseph Lamb

Is it not a fact that retail prices charged for mutton and lamb in the shops have not fallen in comparison with the wholesale prices, and that consequently the public are not getting the benefit?

Mr. Morrison

That is another and a very big question. There is always a lag between the movement of retail prices and that of wholesale prices.

Mr. T. Johnston

In his discussions with overseas suppliers of mutton and Iamb, will the right hon. Gentleman also include discussions on wool?

Mr. Morrison

Yes, Sir. The price of wool is a very relevant factor in the price of sheep at the present time.

Major Whiteley

Will my right hon. Friend remember that this matter is extremely urgent, that it is one which affects not only East Anglia but farmers engaged in the fat sheep and lamb trade all over the country, and that the sooner some action is taken the better?

Mr. Morrison

I am quite aware of the importance of the question.