§ 32. Mrs. Mannasked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he is aware that the price of tomatoes, onions, brussels sprouts and fresh vegetables is invariably about 4d. per lb. more in Scotland than in England; and, as this increase cannot wholly be attributed to freight charges, if he will take steps to control the price in Scotland.
§ The Joint Under-Secretary of State for Scotland (Mr. Niall Macpherson)Because of various factors affecting production, distribution, supplies and demand, prices have never been uniform throughout the country. It is the Government's policy in general to remove controls, not to impose them. In any case it would not be practicable to control the price in Scotland alone, nor would it be likely to result in more vegetables being available to the Scottish household.
§ Mrs. MannIf it is too much to expect that there should be controls, would it be reasonable to expect some survey, or some consideration of these differences, because they have continued for years? Any time that I have questioned the English Minister he has told me that he has no responsibility in the matter, and that I ought to buy my onions in London. Does the Joint Under-Secretary not think that some consideration could be given, particularly on things which are grown 1148 in Lanarkshire? Surely, we ought to be able to buy them there much cheaper than in London?
§ Mr. MacphersonThe hon. Lady is aware, I think, that the Runciman Committee is at present looking into the organisation of marketing. I think that may help her to some extent.