§ 48. Sir BASIL PETOasked the Minister of Agriculture whether his attention has been called to the average prices obtained for British-grown raspberries, black currants, and red currants used in jam making last year, £22 17s., £18 10s., and £16 10s., respectively, per ton, and to the fact that these prices are only about one-fifth of the prices current in 1928; and whether he has made, or proposes to make, any inquiry as to the effect of these low prices on employment in fruit-producing areas?
§ Dr. ADDISONI am aware of the low prices ruling for soft fruits last season. The chief item of cost in the case of soft fruit is for picking, which is generally performed by seasonal labour. The prices ruling last season have not, therefore, so far as I am aware, had any substantial effect on reducing the number of men regularly employed in the chief soft fruit areas. The result of the Agricultural Returns which will be collected on 4th June next will, however, provide information as to the number of workers employed and the acreage under the various crops on that date as compared with the previous year.
§ Sir B. PETODoes the right hon. Gentleman not realise how greatly the demand for fruit-picking labour is diminished if fruit has to be left on the trees or bushes because it is not worth the cost of picking?
§ Dr. ADDISONIf the hon. Member will assist me to get through the Marketing Bill, it will help the position.
§ Sir B. PETOIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that I am not a member of the Committee considering the Bill?