HC Deb 22 May 1946 vol 423 cc333-4
61. Mr. Turton

asked the Minister of Food whether he is aware that potatoes in the North Riding of Yorkshire are being wasted through the delay in collection on the part of his Department; and if he will take immediate action to prevent this.

Sir B. Smith

I am not aware that any potatoes are being wasted. Stocks offered to my Department for disposal are being cleared at a satisfactory rate. Any grower who considers that his potatoes are showing excessive deterioration should at once advise the area potato supervisor.

Mr. Turton

In view of that reply, will the right hon. Gentleman reorganise the intelligence branch of his Department? Is he aware that widespread dissatisfaction in regard to his administration in this matter has been expressed all over the North of England?

Sir B. Smith

I have not collected those voices.

67. Mr. Driberg

asked the Minister of Food if he is aware that, whereas the increase in the price per pound of bread will affect urban and rural consumers alike, the compensatory cut in the price of potatoes will be of benefit mainly to urban consumers, since many people living in the country grow their own potatoes; and if, in order to distribute these compensatory benefits more equitably, he will consider reducing the prices of margarine and cheese instead of the prices of butter and potatoes.

Sir B. Smith

It is, of course, clear that those who grow their own potatoes, whether they live in the country or in towns, will not benefit in the reduction of potato prices, but it would be impossible to find a food for which a price reduction would have equal results for everyone. I am, however, satisfied that to reduce the prices of butter and potatoes is the most equitable way of achieving the object of the reduction, namely, the stabilisation of the cost of living index, with the least possible disturbance to the national economy. In the circumstances I cannot see my way to adopting my hon. Friend's suggestion.

Mr. Driberg

Is my right hon. Friend satisfied also that when such matters as this are being considered there is no urban bias in his Ministry?

Sir B. Smith

There is very definitely not.