§ 54. Mr. Henderson Stewartasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Food whether he is aware that straight- run flour, sold to wholesalers at approximately 1s. 3d. per stone, is being retailed in shops at prices varying from 1s. 4d. to as much as 3s. per stone; and what steps he is taking to stop this unfair practice?
§ Mr. Lennox-BoydI am aware that the retail price of straight-run flour varies in different localities and according to the service rendered by the retailer. The matter is receiving consideration.
Mr. StewartAs this is a. matter of importance to all housewives, and as the variation in price seems to me quite unjustified, cannot my hon. Friend indicate that quicker action is likely to be taken on this matter?
§ Mr. Lennox-BoydOur difficulty is the institution of the Maximum Prices Order, because it allows an increase in the price of flour in those districts where it is definitely sold, sometimes, even below cost price.
§ Mr. W. RobertsIs it not possible to make some arrangements to prescribe the price which existed before the Maximum Prices Order?
§ Mr. Lennox-BoydThat matter is under consideration.
§ Mr. McGovernIs the Parliamentary Secretary aware that nothing causes so much discontent in this country as the profiteering that is going on in the food of the people?
§ Sir Joseph NallIs not this a matter for the profiteering committee, and should not their attention be directed to it?
§ Mr. Lennox-BoydThere is nothing to prevent anybody from making a complaint to the local price regulation committee.
Mr. De la B¸reIs not this matter affected by the milling combine, who are at the bottom of every single evil?