§ 40. Mr. WHITELEYasked the Prime Minister whether it is the intention of the Government to introduce legislation this Session for the purpose of controlling the food prices in the country in order that the community may not be deprived of the advantages of any reduction in taxation on articles of food?
§ The LORD PRIVY SEAL (Mr. Clynes)The Government see no ground at present for fearing that the community will be deprived of the advantages of reduction of taxes on foodstuffs. I understand that there has been a general fall in retail prices of the dutiable articles by the full amount of the recent reductions of duty. In the circumstances no legislation of the character indicated by my hon. Friend appears at present to be necessary.
§ Mr. WHITELEYIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that, notwithstanding the reduction in taxation, potato prices and the price of butter have gone up?
§ Mr. CLYNESI cannot accept that view that prices have gone up as a result of reduced taxation; indeed, it is known that these charges and variations in prices have been due to other causes over which the Government have no control, such as the purchases in foreign markets.
Lieut.-Colonel WATTS-MORGANIs the right hon. Gentleman also aware that bacon and cheese are also rising?
§ Mr. D. G. SOMERVILLEAnd butter?