§ 59. Mr. Collinsasked the Minister of Food if he is aware that cabbage of the same quality, on a London wholesale market, varied in price per half bag of30 lbs. from 7s. 3d. per lb. on 12th June, 13s. 5d. per lb. on 13th June and 16s. 6d. per lb. on 14th June; that housewives were compelled to pay is. 6d. for a cabbage of inferior quality weighing two lbs.; if, in view of the considerable increase in supplies, he is satisfied that these prices are not unduly high; and whether he will take steps to reinstitute maximum prices and control price fluctuation.
§ Mr. StracheyAlthough supplies of all vegetables have improved and will I am glad to say, improve further, they are still much below normal for this time of year. I shall however take very careful account of the position when this 439 year's main crops become available, and if prices still remain at an unreasonable level in relation to this year's costs I shall have to reimpose price control.
§ Mr. CollinsWill my right hon. Friend pay particular attention to the question of cabbages and other greenstuffs and keep the closest possible watch on the matter, because urgent action is necessary owing to the fluctuation in supplies?
§ Mr. StracheyYes, Sir.