§ 4. Mr. BATEYasked the President of the Board of Trade if he will give the date when the Food Council was appointed; the total cost up to the latest available date; and what have been the effects of its activities in reducing food prices?
§ Sir P. CUNLIFFE-LISTERThe Food Council was appointed in July, 1925, and its cost up to 30th June, 1928, has been £8,704. As regards the last part of the question, there has been a marked decline in food prices since the Food Council began their work; but, in the nature of the case, it is not possible to estimate how much of that reduction is attributable to their activities.
§ Mr. BATEYDid not the Government in their manifesto before the General Election state that they would appoint——
§ Mr. SPEAKERThat matter does not arise.
§ Mr. BATEYOn a point of Order. I wanted to know what has been the reduction in food prices which the Government have promised.
§ Mr. SPEAKERThe right hon. Gentleman gave the hon. Member an answer.