HC Deb 29 November 1956 vol 561 cc554-5
11. Mr. G. Darling

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he is aware that the high cost of all types of refrigerators is making it difficult and often impossible for food merchants and retailers to carry out the intentions of the Food and Drugs Acts and the Food Hygiene Regulations; and whether he will examine, in relation to the incidence of Purchase Tax, the cost to the nation of wasted food and ill-health and disease caused by inadequate refrigeration facilities in the food trades.

Mr. H. Brooke

Only the domestic types of refrigerator are liable to Purchase Tax. The larger types commonly used by food merchants and retailers are unaffected by the tax.

Mr. Darling

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that it is not much use trying to develop refrigeration in this country unless consumers also have refrigeration, and that the difficulties are widespread?

Mr. Brooke

That is rather a different question. The hon. Gentleman's Question asks about food merchants and retailers.