§ 23. Mr. Collinsasked the Minister of Food whether, in view of the fact that the efforts of importers, wholesalers and retailers of dates and tomatoes to reduce profit margins and prices have been endangered by the unco-operative attitude of a few large firms, he proposes to take steps to control the margin of profit allowed on these commodities.
§ Dr. SummerskillOnly some 10 per cent. of the dates imported are uncontrolled in price, and my information is that the retail price of these is declining. As regards imported winter tomatoes, it was announced at the beginning of the season that my right hon. Friend would reimpose statutory price control if prices become unreasonable.
§ Mr. CollinsIs the Minister aware that this voluntary allocation will have been 10 very successful, provided two large firms, at present not co-operating, can be brought into line, and will he see if anything can be done to make the scheme one hundred per cent.?
§ Dr. SummerskillIf my hon. Friend cares to give me the names of these films, I will do everything possible.