HC Deb 29 June 1949 vol 466 cc1289-90
52. Sir Waldron Smithers

asked the Minister of Food if he will explain the difference of the detailed items on pages 24 to 44 in the Trading Accounts and Balance Sheets 1947–48 (49) referring to commissions and expenses of agents and distributors which total £23,423,747 and the amount on page 50 of £12,684,640 in the consolidated balance sheet.

Dr. Summerskill

As the reply to the hon. Member's Question contains a number of figures, I will, with permission, circulate it in the OFFICIAL REPORT.

Sir W. Smithers

May I ask the right hon. Lady whether her accounts really are correct or whether my total is wrong?

Dr. Summerskill

I think the hon. Gentleman has made a few miscalculations, but if he follows my answer carefully and consults the relevant pages he will find that there is no discrepancy.

Following is the reply:

The figure of £23,423,747 includes the two items of remuneration and expenses of milk distributors on page 34 of the accounts which appear separately as "Milk Distribution Expenses £12,619,604" on the Consolidated Trading Account. It also excludes the sum of £1,753,894 on page 46 and the fee of £126,603 shown on page 34 as being paid to the Milk Marketing Board.