§ 62. Mr. G. LAMBERTasked the Food Controller if he is aware that in some rural districts the price of 2s. 3d. per gallon to the producer for milk is one that would not be paid but for Government interference; and whether he will give to the local food committees the power of regulating the price of milk in areas where production is cheap, and place upon them the responsibility of maintaining the supply in their areas?
§ Major ASTORThe answer to this question was printed in the OFFICIAL REPORT on Thursday last.
§ Mr. LAMBERTNo reason whatever is given to show why the price of 2s. 3d. per gallon should be introduced. Will the Ministry not leave it to the local food control Department to fix the price?
§ Major ASTORAs already explained, the Food Controller does not believe that it is in the interests of the country to vary these prices except under a general scheme of control. He has appointed a special committee to inquire into the basis of these differentiated rates, and he awaits the report of that committee.
§ Mr. LAMBERTWhen does the hon. Gentleman expect the report?
§ Major ASTORThey have been asked to report at an early date.
§ Mr. LOUGHIs there any punishment for selling under this high price, or any discretion where the supply is plentiful?