HC Deb 28 July 1952 vol 504 cc1082-3
29. Mr. F. Willey

asked the Minister of Food whether he has considered the proposals recently made to him by the retailers' associations to improve the distribution of fruit and veg etables; and what action he is taking.

Dr. Hill

The proposals are still under consideration.

Mr. Willey

Will the Parliamentary Secretary try to persuade the Minister to let us know what he thinks about this?

Dr. Hill

My right hon. and gallant Friend is considering these views, which come from retailers, and other views which come from other sections of the community, and consideration, in the light of all the difficulties, will proceed as quickly as possible.

Miss Burton

Is the Parliamentary Secretary aware that that is exactly the same answer as I got some weeks ago? Does he anticipate that we can have a reply on this matter fairly soon?

Dr. Hill

I thought the hon. Lady was about to say that it was the same kind of answer that she got a year ago.

Mr. Willey

Is the Parliamentary Secretary aware that the last Government announced their proposals about fruit and vegetable marketing?

Dr. Hill

I am aware of the hon. Gentleman's writings on the subject, in which he has emphasised the grave difficulties, including that of capital investment.