HC Deb 18 June 1947 vol 438 cc2011-2
58. Mr. Keeling

asked the Minister of Food for what reason Cheddar, Cheshire, Derby, Lancashire, Leicester, Wensleydale and Dunlop cheese is sold on the ration at 10d. a pound, while Stilton is sold on points at 6s. a pound; and what is the present subsidy per pound for the first-named cheeses.

Mr. Strachey

Varieties of cheese which are suitable for sale on the ration are subsidised in accordance with the Government's stabilisation policy. Stilton cheese is not suitable for the ration. The subsidy on British cheese is about 1s. 7¼d. per lb.

Mr. Keeling

is the Minister aware that all the English cheese which could be produced could be sold at a far higher price than 10d. to people who desire a change from imported "mouse-trap," and why should Wensleydale, Cheshire, and the other English cheeses mentioned be so heavily subsidised when Stilton is not subsidised?

Mr. Strachey

The difference is that they are suitable for the ration while Stilton is not.

Mr. Keeling

But why?

Mr. Osborne

Is not the Minister aware that Stilton is a Leicestershire cheese?