HC Deb 13 February 1956 vol 548 cc2070-1
50. Mr. Willey

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the amount of the bread subsidy to the latest available date for the present financial year.

Mr. Amory

It would be misleading to give the amount of cash paid to date as this is subject to adjustment in the light of the movement of flour prices over the year and of the regular periodical costings investigations.

For the purpose of the Supplementary Estimate for 1955–56 published on 6th February, the bread subsidy was estimated to cost £38.5 million.

Mr. Willey

While I appreciate the reply, will the right hon. Gentleman agree that the present rumours that he intends to abolish or slash the bread subsidy are equally misleading?

Mr. Amory

That does not arise on this Question.