§ 68. Mr. Sorensenasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Food whether he is aware of grievances existing with small shopkeepers respecting the alleged price-cutting of canned goods rationed under the Points Scheme; that, as they are not permitted to engage in collective buying, an inadequate margin within the price unfairly penalises them; and whether he will consider any representations made to him on the matter by organisations of that type of shopkeeper?
Major Lloyd GeorgeAs I stated in reply to a Question by my hon. Friend the Member for Doncaster (Mr. Evelyn Walkden), on 9th December, there is nothing improper in any trader selling 356 price-controlled foodstuffs at less than the maximum price which is prescribed by Order. I cannot agree that the trade margins which have been fixed by the Ministry are inadequate for any class of trader. I will, however consider any representations which my hon. Friend wishes to send to me.
§ Mr. SorensenHas the Parliamentary Secretary had any representations from representative bodies on this point?
Major Lloyd GeorgeI do not think we have had any representations on this particular point, although there have been representations on other aspects of it.
§ Mr. George GriffithsDo these instructions mean that the maximum price is also the minimum price, whatever the profits?
Major Lloyd GeorgeThe maximum price is the maximum price which may be charged. It is not a fixed price.