HC Deb 07 July 1937 vol 326 cc347-8
52. Mr. De la Bère

asked the Minister of Agriculture whether the Government would be prepared to consider preparing some scheme for the control of prices of plums sold to canners and jam manufacturers?

The Minister of Pensions (Mr. Ramsbotham)

I have been asked to reply. It is for producers themselves to consider, in the first instance, what, if any, steps should be taken to deal wtih the prices at which their fruit is disposed of to the processing industries. If responsible organisations of producers have any suggestions to make with this end in view, my right hon. Friend will be glad to look into them.

Mr. De la Bare

Is the Minister aware that plums are selling at a halfpenny per pound in Evesham and Pershore, and can nothing be done to increase the demand for this valuable fruit among the public at such a low price?

Mr. Ramsbotham

If that suggestion is made to my right hon. Friend he will be very glad to consider it.

Mr. De la Bère

Would he consider the suggestion that the British Broadcasting Corporation should publish the fact that a very large supply of the fruit is available for the public?

Viscountess Astor

Do the Government think that it is a very good scheme that a committee of producers should always decide at what price they will sell their commodity, and is that conducive to getting the cheapest food for the people?

Mr. Ramsbotham

That is obviously a matter for the producer to consider first.