§ 26. Mr. F. Willeyasked the Minister of Food the total amount of the subsidy on animal feedingstuffs and on the producer subsidies included in the subsidy on food for 1951–52; and what is the estimated total amount for 1952–53.
§ Major Lloyd GeorgeThe subsidy on animal feedingstuffs for the years 1951–52 and 1952–53 is estimated at £24.2 million and £30 million respectively. The subsidies administered by the Agricultural 18 Departments, but included in the food subsidies total, are estimated at £17.7 million for 1951–52, and £28.4 million for 1952–53.
§ Mr. WilleyDoes the right hon. and gallant Gentleman agree that this considerable increase in the producer subsidies means a corresponding decrease in the housewife's subsidies?
§ Major Lloyd GeorgeIt also means that we hope very much for an increased food supply.
§ Mr. BaldwinIs my right hon. and gallant Friend aware that farmers would like the subsidy on feedingstuffs removed and business returned to the traders so that we might get cheaper food in the end without subsidies?
§ Sir W. SmithersDoes my right hon. and gallant Friend realise that Government interference with the law of supply and demand is at the root of our distribution troubles and that controls are the cause of shortages?