HC Deb 16 December 1946 vol 431 c1596
71. Lieut.-Colonel Corbett

asked the Minister of Food what is the present price being paid in England for U.S. wheat.

Dr. Summerskill

The present cost to the United Kingdom of United States wheat, including insurance and freight from Atlantic ports, is estimated provisionally at about £25 7s. 10d.

Mr. Baldwin

In view of the price which is being paid to the United States, would the Minister consider raising that which is being paid to the English farmers so that they may increase their production of food?

Dr. Summerskill

The prices are fixed in February, and I would inform the hon. Gentleman, who I know is a practical farmer, that the expenses of the United States farmer are higher than those of the English farmer.

Mr. Turton

Is the price stated by the hon. Lady per ton or per ounce?

Dr. Summerskill

I am sorry, £25 7s. 1od. per ton.