HC Deb 17 February 1954 vol 523 c1970
28. Mr. Dodds

asked the Minister of Food how much it cost his Department to subsidise eggs in the four weeks ended 30th January, 1954; and the total sum involved from 1st April, 1953, to 30th January, 1954.

The Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Food (Dr. Charles Hill)

The cost of the present arrangements for eggs for the four weeks ended 30th January, 1954, was £5.2 million and for the period 1st April, 1953, to 30th January, 1954, £15.0 million.

Mr. Dodds

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that, in view of the apologetic attitude of the right hon. and gallant Gentleman the Minister of Food yesterday on the egg blunder, I have not the heart to press the matter again?

Mrs. Mann

In view of the extensive capital made by Conservative speakers in the four recent by-elections about the 2½d. eggs, does not the hon. Gentleman think that the Conservative Party ought to return this £20 million to the Treasury?

Dr. Hill

I am sorry that the hon. Lady is so dismayed at such an abundance of eggs at low prices.

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