§ 15. Mr. Henderson Stewartasked the President of the Board of Trade why no consultation took place between his Department and the retail trade, prior to his announcement of 13th December, to the effect that a new order regarding retail prices had been signed; and if he will explain the full circumstances in which this change in procedure was brought about and what were the reasons for the reduction in the profit margin in view of rising costs to retailers.
§ Sir S. CrippsI assume that the hon. Member is referring to the reduction in retail margins on cloth and clothing. Negotiations with the retailers' joint committee began last July and no fewer than nine retail associations took part in the discussions, which extended over a period of several months. I myself had a meeting with the joint committee on 17th December. The maximum retail percentage margins for cloth and clothing were fixed during the war, and revisions were necessary because both the prices on which the margins are calculated and the volume of goods had increased substantially. In making reductions, I took account of actual and potential increases in retailers' expenses, which they have to bear out of their margins.
§ Mr. StewartIs the, right hon. and learned Gentleman aware that in the case of utility furniture no such consultations took place, and I am informed by the association concerned that the change was made without any reference to them whatever?
§ Sir S. CrippsThe lack of information is inaccurate if it applies to cloth and clothing. As regards utility furniture, perhaps the hon. Gentleman will put a Question down if he wants an answer.