§ 99. Mr. FOOTasked the Minister of Agriculture if his attention has been called to the gross disparity existing between the prices obtained by fishermen for their fish and the prices paid by the consumer; and whether he will cause an inquiry to be made as to this disparity on lines similar to the inquiry which is being made as to the grievance of agriculturists in this respect?
§ Major BARNSTON (Comptroller of the Household)I have been asked to reply. My right hon. Friend is aware of the disparity referred to, which constantly engages the attention of his Department. A considerable part of it may be attributed to the risks inevitably associated with trade in so perishable a commodity as fish. My right hon. Friend is carefully studying the other causes which may contribute to it. He does not think that at the present time the appointment of a Committee of Inquiry would be justified by results.
§ Mr. FOOTWould it not be possible to include this inquiry in that which is being made as to the grievance of agriculturists?