§ 26. Mr. AMMONasked the President of the Board of Trade whether he has inquired into the shortage of supply and increased cost of corned beef; and can he now say to what extent it is due to quota restrictions?
§ Mr. RUNCIMANI understand that the increase in the wholesale prices of corned beef is largely attributable to the increased cost of cattle of the type used for canning. The voluntary limitation of imports at present in force does not involve any reduction of quantity below the level of the last four years. The position is being watched.
§ Mr. AMMONIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that while the imports are as high as before there is considerable re-export from this country, and is he also aware that those re-exports are said to be going to Italy?
§ Mr. RUNCIMANI certainly could not answer that question without notice.
§ Mr. AMMONWill the right hon. Gentleman make inquiries and inform the House whether he is sure that they are not going to Italy?
§ Mr. RUNCIMANI am ready to make inquiries, but I have not got the information now.
§ Mr. A. V. ALEXANDERIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that the price of corned beef has gone up almost phenomenally in the last three months, and in the circumstances would it not be a good thing to refer the question to the Food Council?
§ Mr. RUNCIMANIt certainly is matter which can be inquired into. I think it merits inquiry.
§ Sir PERCY HARRISIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that the rise in price is also due to the increase in the cost of bacon, because people are now buying corned beef instead of bacon?