§ 22. Mr. T. Smith (for Mr. T. Williams)asked the Minister of Agriculture the average price per live cwt. of British beef, first quality, on the last week in May, 1936, and 1937; and the price at Salisbury for the same two dates?
§ Mr. W. S. MorrisonAverage prices per live cwt. of fat cattle of first quality in the week ended 26th May were as follow: All Markets, 48s. 3d.; Salisbury, 57s. The averages for the corresponding week in 1936 were 39s. 10d. and 42s. respectively.
§ Mr. MorrisonI hope that the producers regard them as more satisfactory than the prices they have been receiving.
§ Mr. ThorneCan the right hon. Gentleman give any reason for so much variation in prices in different parts of the country?
§ Mr. MorrisonIt is very largely a matter of breed and quality. The cattle sold at Salisbury were lightweight Devons and very well finished, and butchers are ready to pay more for them.