HC Deb 03 November 1947 vol 443 cc1326-7
33. Mr. Oliver Stanley

asked the Minister of Food whether he has received any recent report on the progress and prospects of the East African groundnuts scheme; and whether he proposes to publish it.

Dr. Summerskill

Yes, Sir. The managing agents who are operating this scheme present a progress report every calendar month and the report for September has been received. These reports go into great detail, and are not suitable for publication. My right hon. Friend, however, is making a review of the progress of the scheme and will make a statement in the House on the subject soon.

Mr. Stanley

Is the Minister aware that as far back as last April the House was promised that a report on this scheme would be published in September? Would it not be more convenient, in view of the fact that we are to debate this matter on Thursday, that, the original undertaking should be carried out?

Dr. Summerskill

Certainly we made a promise, and we expect to fulfil it, but the report has only just reached us, and I can assure the right hon. Gentleman that my right hon. Friend will make a statement, and I will convey the matter to him.

Mr. Stanley

It, as the hon. Lady says, monthly progress reports are obtained, could we not have had the last monthly progress report up to September?

Dr. Summerskill

One would naturally think that the House would like the latest report.

CHANGES IN THE RETAIL PRICES OF THE MAJOR FOODSTUFFS BETWEEN 5TH APRIL AND 31ST OCTOBBR, 1947, HAVE BEEN AS FOLLOW:
Price at 5th April, 1947. Price at 31st October, 1947. Increase (+) Decrease (-) over 5th April, price.
s. d. s. d. d
Bacon (various cuts), per lb. 1 2 11 (-)3
2 5 2 1 (-)4
Butter, per lb. 1 6 1 4 (-)2
Eggs (categories I and II), per doz. 1 9 1 6 (-)3
2 0 1 9 (-)3
Jam and Marmalade, per lb. 1 0 1 1½ (+)1½
1 4 1 6½ (+)2½
Milk, per quart 9 10 (+)1
Sugar, per lb. 4 3 (-)1
Tea (all varieties other than China and Formosa) Increased by 4d. per lb. (+)4
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