HC Deb 10 March 1947 vol 434 cc946-7
71. Mr. Janner

asked the Minister. of Food how many Breton onion sellers have been authorised to land in this country for the purpose of selling French onions; why they are permitted to sell at the maximum control retail price which allows both for the wholesalers' and retailers' margins; and what steps are taken to ensure that they sell by weight like other retail salesmen in order to comply with the Onion Order.

Dr. Summerskill

Following representations made by the French Government to allow a resumption of a trade carried on before the war, licences authorising the sale by retail of onions grown in France by the licensee or his employer have recently been granted to 54 Breton onion sellers. The licences place the holders in no different a position as regards wholesalers' and retailers' margins from that of any British trader who had prewar interests as importer, wholesaler and retailer. To enable the licensees to comply with the provisions of the Onions Order, it was arranged that the onions should be weighed before stringing and that spring balances should be carried by the hawkers for checking purposes if required.

Mr. Janner

In view of the anxiety felt in this matter, will the hon. Lady undertake that there will be no discrimination, and that, if there is any difference between the arrangements in respect of these vendors and of our own retailers and wholesalers here, it will be rectified?

Dr. Summerskill

Certainly.

Mr. Alpass

May I ask my hon. Friend if she is aware that onions were absolutely unprocurable in Bristol and district last week, and whether, if any are made available later, she will see to it that Bristol receives its fair share?

72. Mr. Janner

asked the Minister of Food whether the same facilities for the sale of onions in this country will be given to British vendors as to the Breton onion sellers recently permitted to land here, or on what grounds such discrimination is justified.

Dr. Summerskill

Yes, Sir. If my hon. Friend knows of any case in which there appears to have been discrimination, I shall gladly look into it.