HC Deb 12 July 1917 vol 95 cc2092-3
86. Mr. MILLAR

asked what steps the Food Controller proposes to take to protect the public against the excessive prices still being charged for many staple articles of food?

Mr. BRIDGEMAN

The Food Controller announced yesterday in the House of Lords that he hoped to be able to secure a substantial reduction in the price of cattle and consequently in the price of meat. A statement of his general policy will be made later.

Mr. MILLAR

Are we to understand that nothing is to be done by the Food Controller till the 1st September, and that up to that date we are to be at the mercy of food profiteers?

Mr. BRIDGEMAN

I am afraid I cannot explain the procedure further now.

Mr. G. LAMBERT

Can the hon. Gentleman say when the Food Controller proposes to issue his Order in regard to the price of cattle?

Mr. BRIDGEMAN

I am afraid I must have notice of that.