HC Deb 09 May 1940 vol 360 c1400
53. Mr. De la B¸re

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Food what authority exists for the in crease in the price of bread delivered last week in provincial areas throughout the country?

Mr. Lennox-Boyd

Increases in the price of bread in provincial areas are made by bakers on their own initiative. An inquiry is being held into bakers' costs throughout the United Kingdom, and the results of this inquiry will enable a decision to be taken as to whether such increases are justifiable.

Mr. De la B¸re

Are the public justified in resisting this increase, or should they await an announcement from the Ministry of Food?

Mr. J. Morgan

Does the Minister suggest that there is no control over the price of bread?

Mr. Lennox-Boyd

As the hon. Member knows, there is no maximum price for bread.

Mr. De la B¸re

Will my hon. Friend answer my question, as to whether the public are entitled to resist the increase or whether they must await an announcement from the Ministry?

Mr. Lennox-Boyd

The public will, no doubt, do what seems to them to be sensible.