HC Deb 16 July 1952 vol 503 cc2121-2
3. Miss Burton

asked the Minister of Food if he is now in a position to make a statement on the black market activity in eggs and on the action proposed by the Government.

Major Lloyd George

As the hon. Member was informed on 2nd July, I am examining the system of egg control, with particular reference to illegal sales. I cannot say more at the moment.

Miss Burton

I am well aware of that, but is the right hon. and gallant Gentleman also aware that he himself told the country that more than half the eggs were not going through the egg grading scheme, and that this has been going on for a long time? How soon can he hope to get a satisfactory solution to the matter?

Major Lloyd George

I did not say that half the eggs were not going through the egg packing station, thus suggesting that they were going into the black market. Of the 45 per cent. of eggs not going through the packing stations, between 15 and 20 per cent. are quite legitimately sold freely as eggs produced by the 25 head of hens and under, and therefore the amount unaccounted for is about a quarter. Another point is that the eggs passing through the packing stations have more than doubled in the last four years. But, even so, I am not satisfied that the scheme is entirely satisfactory, and that is why I am looking into the matter.

Sir W. Smithers

Is my right hon. and gallant Friend aware that it is quite impossible to have an effective control over the distribution of eggs? Why not take off all controls altogether, as well as the control of black hats?

Miss Burton

Is the right hon. and gallant Gentleman aware that the figure he gave was 55 per cent., and not 45 per cent., which was not going through the scheme?

Major Lloyd George

indicated dissent.

Miss Burton

I am sorry, but I am within the recollection of HANSARD and of Members of the House. It was 45 per cent. that was going through and 55 per cent. which was not.

Major Lloyd George

If I gave that impression, I certainly apologise. The fact is that 55 per cent. goes through the packing stations and 45 per cent. does not.

4. Miss Burton

asked the Minister of Food if he will give details concerning the type of convictions, between 1st October and 31st May last, dealing with large-scale operations in the black market on eggs.

Major Lloyd George

Thirty-nine producers, 84 retailers and 63 caterers were convicted of illegal dealing in eggs in varying quantities up to 1,417 dozen.