HC Deb 24 March 1948 vol 448 cc3011-2
53. Mr. Harrison

asked the Minister of Food if he intends to adjust the price of cabbages so that a suitable return is made to the growers, and at the same time bring down the price to the consumers, in view of the comparative glut of this vegetable and the continuance of the high retail price.

Dr. Summerskill

Cabbage prices are not controlled and to impose maximum prices would be unlikely to have the effect desired by my hon. Friend.

Mr. Harrison

May I ask what the hon. Lady proposes to do about the position? A fortnight or three weeks ago farmers in wide stretches of the country were ploughing back this particularly valuable food, and receiving for those they did sell only three-farthings a pound, although at the same time they cost 4d. to 6d. in open market.

Dr. Summerskill

I can assure the hon. Member that it is not in the interests of the farmer or the retailer to impose maximum prices in conditions of glut.