§ 29. Mr. KIRKWOODasked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he has considered the protests from the Scottish Provision Trade Association Executive against the continuance of the Bacon and Ham Marketing Board which they allege has inflicted widespread hardship and injustice on many sections of the community, has created an artificial scarcity, forced up prices, and deprived a large proportion of the industrial population of a staple food; and if he is prepared, in view of the representations of the association, to order an inquiry into the operation of the board in Scotland, with a view to protecting consumers against an artificial scarcity and increased prices?
§ Mr. SKELTONMy right hon. Friend has received from the Scottish Provision Trade Association representations based upon an alleged scarcity of hams. The representations have been referred to the Market Supply Committee for investigation.