HC Deb 10 May 1954 vol 527 c844
32. Mr. Willey

asked the Minister of Food whether, in view of the fact that the non-take up of rationed cheese at the latest available date was 63 per cent, of the total entitlement, he will reduce the price of cheese sold by his Department.

Dr. Hill

Cheese is no longer rationed. There has already been announced a reduction of approximately 4d. a lb. in the price of cheese sold by my Department.

Mr. Willey

Is the Parliamentary Secretary aware that the price reduction which I am advocating will be very much welcomed? Will he continue to watch the price, while the Ministry is still responsible, during decontrol?

Dr. Hill

With decontrol, the retail price will be settled by the consumer.

Mr. Willey

Is the Parliamentary Secretary aware that the price will also be affected by the price at which his Ministry disposes of this cheese? Will he bear this consideration in mind?

Dr. Hill

Yes, Sir; but the hon. Gentleman really must disguise his dismay at the fall in price.

Mr. Stokes

Does the hon. Gentleman's doctrine that the consumer controls the price apply to oil as well?

Dr. Hill

I am dealing with cheese.