§ 52. Squadron-Leader Segalasked the Minister of Food whether he is aware that almost the only fruits on sale in the Lon don area during the last week were invalid grapes at 30s. per pound; and whether, as this is not a fair price to charge under existing conditions, he will control the price of grapes to make them available for invalids who cannot afford to pay such a high charge.
§ Sir B. SmithSupplies of fresh fruit at this time of the year are naturally scarce. I am aware that some grapes are selling at high prices. However, the total quantity of hot-house grapes available this year—about 1,000 tons—is so small that I cannot justify the introduction of a control scheme. In order to meet the demand for fresh fruit in the winter I propose to make several allocations of 408 oranges at a maximum retail price of 7d. per lb.
§ Squadron-Leader SegalWhen will my right hon. Friend release some grapes of a less sour variety for the benefit of His Majesty's Opposition?
§ Sir B. SmithJust as soon as I can get them.