HC Deb 20 March 1922 vol 152 cc37-9
64. Mr. HURD

asked the Minister of Agriculture what was the average price paid to the farmer for milk for each of the past 12 months; whether the percentage of difference between that price and the price paid by the consumer is larger now than in 1913; and, if so, by how much?

Sir A. BOSCAWEN

As the reply to this question includes a large number of figures, I propose, with the permission of the House, to circulate it in the OFFICIAL REPORT.

Following is the reply:

The information obtained by my Department in regard to the prices paid to producers for milk delivered into London during the last 12 months indicates that the average price per Imperial gallon in each month was as set out below. The average retail price in London, as ascertained by the Ministry of Labour, is also stated.

tailers' prices was 9d. a gallon in 1913, it has amounted to 1s. 2¾d. a gallon during the last 12 months.

59. Mr. HURD

asked the Minister of Agriculture whether he has received information from Somerset farmers that the prices now offered to them by the milk companies are, for April, one-third only of those of last year, and fall as low as 7d. and 8d. in some cases and in others 5d. and 6d. per gallon in May and the succeeding four months; whether, on last season's average yield, these prices will fail to cover rent, taxes, and wages on many holdings; and whether he will bring these facts to the notice of the Cabinet, with a view to a remedy this Session for the inequitable rating of agricultural land?

Sir A. BOSCAWEN

I am informed that wholesale milk dealers generally are offering prices considerably below those paid last year for the summer months, but that few, if any, definite contracts have yet been made. As regards the latter part of the question, I would refer my hon. Friend to my replies to the questions put to me on the 8th and 13th instant by the hon. and gallant Member for Devizes, and on the 17th instant by the hon. Member for Yeovil.

Mr. HURD

Does that mean that the right hon. Gentleman is bringing this matter before the Cabinet?

Sir A. BOSCAWEN

If the hon. Member will look at the answer referred to, he will see that that is so.