§ 44. Mr. Collinsasked the Minister of Food if he is aware that the heavy loadings of new potatoes are creating difficulties in the markets; and if he will permit of payments to growers at prices below the guaranteed minimum.
§ Dr. SummerskillThere is less evidence of markets now being over-supplied, the pressure to load having eased. I cannot contemplate reducing the growers' prices which were fixed to encourage a large acreage and early lifting, particularly when licensed merchants have a large measure of control over the quantity coming to the markets.
§ Mr. CollinsIn view of the fact that my hon. Friend cannot contemplate reducing the minimum prices, is there any other method whereby the overloading and subsequent holding up of supplies can be avoided, because that is what is happening now?
§ Dr. SummerskillNo, I think that at the moment we are satisfied with the loading, and to reduce the price at this stage would be a breach of faith.