HC Deb 10 December 1941 vol 376 cc1524-5
53. Mr. Sorensen

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Food whether he will publish periodically through the Press or otherwise a list of representative foodstuffs showing the approximate profit made on the retail and wholesale prices, respectively?

Major Lloyd George

No, Sir.

Mr. Sorensen

Does the right hon. and gallant Gentleman appreciate that the publication of such information would be in the public interest and would give some guidance as to profiteering which may or may not exist?

Major Lloyd George

The hon. Member or anyone who wishes can go to the Stationery Office and get all the figures.

Mr. Sorensen

Does not the right hon. and gallant Gentleman agree that the whole public cannot go to the Stationery Office?

Major Lloyd George

We cannot really arrange for publication on the lines suggested. All the prices are in the Orders, and anyone who is really interested can see what the margins of profit are.