§ 58. Mr. Lipsonasked the Minister of Food if he is now able to agree that consumers may change their registrations for milk if they so desire.
§ Dr. SummerskillIt has been decided to give consumers an opportunity to change their milkman between 3rd May and 15th May next. The new registrations will be operative as from 30th May. One further recommendation of the Williams' Report has also been adopted, namely, that it will not be possible to increase milk retailers margins to cover any additional costs which it may be claimed may result from consumers' changing their milkmen. In the circumstances, milk distributors will be free to refuse new customers if they so desire.
§ Mr. LipsonIs the hon. Lady aware that that announcement will be received with very great satisfaction?
§ Mr. C. S. TaylorIs the hon. Lady aware that this decision, taken at this time, will lead to far greater milk distribution costs and a greater use of manpower and petrol?
§ Dr. SummerskillNot necessarily. That is why the addendum was made that retailers, if they like, can refuse customers.