§ 46. Colonel C. LOWTHERasked the Prime Minister whether, in view of the fact that meatless days have been abolished and that submarine attacks have decreased during the last month, the Government will take immediate steps to prevent the continued increase in the price of meat?
The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the MINISTRY Of FOOD (Captain Bathurst)I have been asked to reply. Part I. of the Meat (Sales) Order, which comes into operation to-day, eliminates all unnecessary intermediate transactions between the farmer and the retailer. A scheme for fixing prices is in preparation, and steps have been taken to increase the market supply of beef and mutton under Government control. The present temporary high price of meat is due not to the abandonment of the meatless day but partly to reduced supplies of meat from abroad, and partly to the relatively small quantity of home grown stock coming upon the market owing to the prolonged winter and their resulting poor condition. It must not be assumed that there is a constant ratio between submarine casualties and the loss of food cargoes.
§ Colonel LOWTHERWill the Leader of the House given an opportunity for this House to discuss at an early moment the high price of food, profiteering, and other causes leading to labour unrest in this country?
§ Mr. WARDLEMay I reinforce that, and ask if it is possible to have an opportunity for discussing this very grave question?
§ The CHANCELLOR of the EXCHEQUER (Mr. Bonar Law)It must be obvious that I shall require time to consider that, and I shall do so.