Mr. A. HENDERSONMay I ask the Prime Minister whether he will state the scope of the inquiry by the Committee of the Cabinet into the prices and supply of commodities; whether the Committee is receiving evidence on the subject; when the inquiry is likely to be completed; and whether he will grant the House an early opportunity of discussing the whole question of the prices and supply of foodstuffs and other necessary commodities?
§ The PRIME MINISTERThe Committee of the Cabinet over which I am presiding has been for some time giving this matter most careful consideration. All aspects of the question are being examined. The Committee is receiving full information from the various Government departments concerned, and these departments are making such inquiries as are necessary to complete the information already in their possession. I cannot say when the inquiry will be completed, but no avoidable delay will take place, and the Government are fully alive to the urgency of the subject. The House will certainly be given the opportunity of discussing the whole question.
§ Mr. BARNESWill the Government consider the desirability of fixing in the meantime maximum prices for wheat and other commodities?
§ The PRIME MINISTERAll these suggestions have been very carefully considered.
§ Mr. BARNESPending the deliberations and the reports of the Committee, will maximum prices be fixed in the meantime?
§ The PRIME MINISTERI am afraid not.
§ Mr. JOHN WARDWhat will be about the earliest date of the discussion of this subject?
§ The PRIME MINISTERI hope very soon indeed.
§ Mr. HODGEMay I ask the Prime Minister if he is aware that in the East End of London 2s. 6d. per cwt. is being charged for coal, and if it is not monstrous and demands instant attention?
§ The PRIME MINISTERWe are fully alive to the urgency of the question.