§ 34. Miss Burtonasked the Minister of Food why purchases of flour in excess of the average consumption have been banned to bakers, making it impossible to lay up stocks.
Dr. HillDeliveries of flour have been restricted to the normal average in order to prevent the laying in of excessive stocks.
§ Miss BurtonIs the hon. Gentleman aware that in the trade itself master bakers anticipate that this means a rise in price? Will he say that this is incorrect? Also, will he bear in mind that a rise in the price of bread affects the poorer section of the community more than any other?
Dr. HillMy right hon. and gallant Friend announced recently that he was discussing the decontrol of cereals, including feedingstuffs. To prevent any undue accumulation of stocks during the discussions, it has been decided to limit stocking to the average for the time of the year.