HC Deb 01 November 1948 vol 457 cc519-20
60. Sir W. Smithers

asked the Minister of Agriculture, why, with a large promised crop of potatoes this year, the price is fixed at 15s. a ton higher than last year, when there was a crop failure.

Mr. G. Brown

The increase this season in prices to growers of potatoes was made at the Special Price Review in August, 1947. Prices were increased because of increased costs and because of the need to ensure the planting of potatoes on a large enough area of land to meet our requirements, on the assumption that yields would be normal. Under the system of guaranteed markets and prices for farm products prices are fixed in advance on the basis of normal yields.

Sir W. Smithers

May I ask the Minister why the Minister of Food farmed out this idea to him? In future, will he ignore the opinion of the Minister of Food on these matters, and use all the influence he has to get good supplies of potatoes and to remove all control from potatoes?

Mr. Brown

There is no question of farming out; it is very much our business. In reply, I would urge on the hon. Gentleman that he should be subject to the influence of his own party on the question of guaranteed prices.

Sir W. Smithers

I am under the influence of no one.