HC Deb 17 November 1948 vol 458 c371
49. Sir I. Fraser

asked the Minister of Food what increase in the supplies of soft drinks there has been since the industry was freed from control.

Mr. Strachey

About 25 per cent.

Sir I. Fraser

Will the right hon. Gentleman consider the economic and gastronomic advantages of taking off other controls?

Mr. Strachey

I think the increased supply had something to do with the fact that we allocated extra sugar to the industry.

Mr. Anthony Greenwood

What increase in price has there been since control was removed?

Mr. Strachey

There has not been any marked increase in price.

Mr. Emrys Roberts

Is it not a fact that the price per bottle has increased from 2s. 6d. to 3s. 6d.?

Mr. Strachey

No, Sir; according to my information there has been a spread in prices. The cheaper varieties have decreased, and the dearer varieties have increased.