HC Deb 15 December 1947 vol 445 cc1443-4
23. Mr. Orr-Ewing

asked the Minister of Food why the Bristol Port Authority do not mark cases of imported fruit according to grade or type; and, as this failure to mark results in retailers sometimes having to pay high grade prices for low grade fruits with consequent loss and confusion, whether he will take steps to improve the position.

Mr. Strachey

With the present shortage of labour and the necessity for turning ships round in the shortest possible time it would be impracticable to adopt the hon. Member's suggestion which would entail opening and inspecting every case. I am satisfied that the present arrangements are the fairest which can be devised in present circumstances.

Mr. Orr-Ewing

Is the Minister aware that as a result of this practice retail traders are being involved in considerable losses, and cannot some system be arranged by means of which they know exactly what they are buying?

Mr. Strachey

It is impossible to have every case opened at the port.

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