HC Deb 04 August 1943 vol 391 cc2293-4
49. Mr. Evelyn Walkden

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Food whether he is aware of the progressive increase in the gap between production prices and retail selling prices for fruit, vegetables and other agricultural produce: whether he has considered proposals or plans for a complete revision of the existing marketing system; and what action he intends to take?

Mr. Mabane

I am not aware that the gap between producers' prices and retail prices for agricultural or horticultural produce is increasing. So far as prices are controlled by Order my Noble Friend's endeavour is to fix the lowest trade margins compatible with wide distribution and existing conditions. As regards the second part of the Question, my Noble Friend considers that the consumer's interests will be best served by retaining the existing marketing system. Any drastic change would almost certainly lead to a long period of maldistribution and consequent waste.

Mr. Walkden

Is my hon. Friend aware that housewives and consumers generally feel very concerned about the price of commodities like tomatoes and apples, which has risen over 150 and even up to 200 per cent. as compared with pre-war prices, and will he relate that to the margins allowed to wholesalers and producers and re-examine the whole question in view of the House of Lords Debate of a few months ago?

Mr. Mabane

I have examined the margins, but it is not a matter of margins. The hon. Member must remember that growers' prices have increased, and surely this is a recrudescence of the old conflict between consumers in the towns, who want to buy cheaply, and the growers, who must have a price to enable them to produce at a profit.

Mr. Glenvil Hall

Is not the hon. Gentleman aware that in the case of lettuces which in the country are sold by the grower for a halfpenny or a penny they are sold in the shops at 10d. or 1s.?

Mr. Mabane

I am quite in agreement that the price of lettuces at the present time is extraordinarily high, but a shower of rain might alter the whole supply position. Price control of lettuces might be worse than the present situation.

Mr. Walkden

Is not the hon. Gentleman aware that the prices of fresh salads are abominably high and have been for months past, and continue to be?

Mr. Mabane

It must be remembered that growers in the past have not always been able to do as well perhaps as they ought to have done.