§ 33. Mr. Jannerasked the Minister of Food if he is aware of the hardship caused to the poorer members of the community owing to the high price of new potatoes and whether additional supplies are contemplated so that they can be retailed at a lower price.
§ The Minister of Food (Mr. Maurice Webb)Potatoes were scarce during the second half of June, because the old crop ran out earlier than usual, and in the 941 eastern counties the new crop was late; but there are now plenty for all at reasonable prices. This, at least, is the general position, but if my hon. Friend has knowledge of any local problem I will look into it at once if he will give me the details.
§ Mr. KeelingIs not it an abuse of language to suggest, as this Question does, that the middle classes suffer hardship if they can only get old potatoes?