HC Deb 28 March 1955 vol 539 cc23-4
41. Mr. McAdden

asked the Minister of Food how the average retail prices paid for eggs in 1954 compare with the prices paid in 1953.

Dr. Hill

The average retail price for home-produced hen eggs for the financial year 1954–55 was about 4s. 2d. per dozen compared with about 4s. 6d. per dozen in the year 1953–54. Imported hen eggs were slightly cheaper than home-produced eggs in both years.

Mr. McAdden

Does my hon. Friend realise that the housewife will consider that to be a very satisfactory position? Can he perhaps give us the figure for the last year under control and the numbers of eggs passing through the packing stations in the current year and in the previous year?

Dr. Hill

For the last year under control, the corresponding figure was 4s. 8d. The packing stations through-put in 195354 was 13.9 million boxes and in 1954–55, 16 million boxes.

Mr. Collins

Does the hon. Gentleman have figures available for the additional cost to the taxpayer arising from the difference in the prices?

Dr. Hill

Perhaps the hon. Member will put the Question down.