§ 22. Miss Burtonasked the Minister of Education whether he is aware that the provision of milk in schools in England and Wales now costs the Exchequer about £10 million per annum in England and Wales; that the position in May, 1955, was that only about 25 per cent. of all school milk supplies was bought at some discount below the maximum retail price representing a saving of about £90,000 per annum; and whether, as lower prices were enjoyed on contract by hospitals and other similar large users, he will make a statement on the present position.
The Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Education (Mr. Dennis Vesper)The answer to the first part of the Question is "Yes." My right hon. Friend is anxious that the local authorities which are still paying the maximum retail price regardless of local circumstances should take firm action to secure better terms. I am glad to say many of them have recently done so, and the position is now substantially better than it was last May.
§ Miss BurtonCan the hon. Member say whether the position is any better in the densely populated area of London'? Is he aware that only 2½per cent. of school milk supplies in London last year were sold at any reduction?
§ Mr. VosperThere is nothing I can add to my Answer about London at the moment, except to say that I hope that discounts will be forthcoming in the near future.