HC Deb 14 July 1943 vol 391 cc197-8
57. Sir W. Smithers

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Food on what data the pre-emption price of 8¾d. per lb. for this year was arrived at for strawberries produced in North West Kent?

Mr. Mabane

Growers' prices for strawberries were fixed by the Ministry on a national basis after consultation with a committee of the National Farmers' Union representing growers in the different producing areas, including North West Kent. Consideration was also given to estimates of the probable yield and of dates of maturity of the crop, and to the experience of the 1942 Order.

Sir W. Smithers

In view of the fact that the Minister of Agriculture stated in the House that he has no precise information on this matter, why does the Minister of Food insist in fixing pre-emption prices in this late season area below the cost of production, to the financial detriment of the small growers? It breaks their hearts.

Mr. Mabane

We cannot do better than come to agreement with the National Farmers' Union in consultation with the Ministry of Agriculture. In fact there is every reason to believe that the prices paid for strawberries this year were very satisfactory to the growers.

Mr. Mathers

Did the Ministry get agreement with the Scottish growers, because there is a feeling that the prices to them were also unfair?

Mr. Mabane

Not, I think, for strawberries.